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Columbia  5Bnitier^tt|) 
intlieCitpoflfttjgork 


LIBRARY 


ANECDOTES 

OF  THE 


SKETCHES  OF  CHARACTER 


PERSONS  THE    MOST  DISTINGUISHED,    IN  THE    SOUTHERN  STATES,  FOR 
CIVIL    AND   MILITARY    SERVICES. 


BY  ALEXANDER  GARDEN, 

OF  lee's  partisan  legion;  aid-de-camp  to  major  general  GREENE; 

AND    HONORARY    MEMBER   OF    THE    HISTORICAL    SOCIETV   OF 
NEW-YORK. 


"  I  cannot  but  remember  such  thing's  were." Shakspeare- 


CHARLESTON: 

PRINTED  FOR  THE  AUTHOR,  BY  A.  E.  MILLER, 
NO.  4,  BROAD-STREET. 


1822. 


District  of  South-Carolina,  to  tuit : 

-#=0000*        BE  IT  REMEMBERED,  That  on  the  first  day  of  April,  Anno  Domini,  one 
Q  0     thousand  eight  hundred  and  twenty-two,  and  in  the  forty-sixth  year  of  the  In- 

f)  SEAL.  0     dependence  of  the  United  States  of  America,  Major  Alexander  Garden,  deposited 
Q  0     '°  *'"*  office  the  title  of  a  book,  the  right  whereof  he  claims  as  author  and 

,^>C>oOCi.§j    proprietor,  in  the  words  following,  to  wit: 

«  Anecdotes  of  the  Revolutionary  War  in  America,  with  Sketches  of  Character  of  persons  the 
most  distinguished  in  the  Southern  States,  for  Civil  and  Military  services.  By  Alexander 
Garden, of  Lee's  Partisan  Legion;  Aid-de-Camp  to  Major  General  Greene,  and  Honorary 

Member  of  the  Historical  Society  of  New-York.    1  cannot  but  remember  such  things 

were." — Shalcspcare. 

In  conformity  with  the  act  of  Congress  of  the  United  States,  entitled  "  An  act  for  the 
Encouragement  of  Learning,  by  securing  the  Copies  of  maps,  charts,  and  books,  to  the  authors 
and  proprietors  of  such  copies,  during  the  times  therein  mentioned,"  and  also  to  the  act  entitled 
"  An  act  supplementary  to  an  aci,  entitled,  '  An  act  for  the  encouragement  of  learning,  by 
securing  the  copies  of  maps,  charts,  and  books,  to  the  authors  and  proprietors  of  such  copies, 
during  the  times  therein  mentioned',  and  extending  the  benefits  thereof  to  the  arts  of  designing, 
engraving  and  etching  historical  and  other  prints." 

JAMES  JERVEY, 
Clerk  of-thc  District  of  South-Carolina. 


„  TO 

PRESIDENT  GENERAL 

OP 

THE  SOCIETY  OF  THE  CINCINNATI. 

TO 

PRESIDENT, 

AND  THE  OTHER  MEMBERS  OF  THE  SOCIETY 

OF  THE  CINCINNATI  IN  SOUTH-CAROLINA, 

IN  GRATITUDE 

FOR  LONG  EXPERIENCED  TESTIMONIES 

OF  THEIR  FAVOUR  .AND  CORDIAL  REGARD, 

THIS  WORK 

IS  AFFECTIONATELY  DEDICATED, 

BY  THEIR  BROTHER  AND  FRIEND 

THE  AUTHOR. 


101  ty'^ 


w®  wmm  ^mAmmm<^ 


The  Author  of  the  following  pages  would  be  deficient  in 
gratitude,  did  he  fail  to  return  his  warmest  thanks  for  the  liberal 
patronage  received  from  the  Public.  The  rapidity  with  which  his 
Subscrijition  Lists  have  been  filled  up,  is  not  only  flattering  to  his 
effort  to  give  to  society  a  Work,  that  properly  executed,  may,  to  the 
rising  generation,  prove  of  some  utility;  but,  particularly  so,  as  it 
evinces,  that  an  attachment  to  Revolutionary  principles,  is  cherished 
in  the  bosoms  of  his  fellow-citizens,  with  pristine  ardour  and  admi- 
ration. It  is  not,  however,  numbers,  so  much  as  honourable  names, 
that  he  loould possess  ;  and  when  on  his  lists  he  sees  the  signatures 
of  many  of  those  distinguished  Ladies,  whose  fii-mness  and  exem- 
plary conduct  in  the  day  of  trial,  dignified  their  sex,  and  adorned 
the  annals  of  their  country  ;  and  of  venerable  Patriots,  whose 
wisdom  in  council,  and  valour  in  the  field,  essentially  contributed  to 
fix  the  Independence  of  America,  he  claims  a  right  to  be  proud,  and 
has  only  to  hope,  that  his  performance  may  justify  their  partiality. 

To  the  Honorable  Judge  Desaussure,  and  Mr.  Keating  Simons, 
he  acknowledges  himself  particularly  indebted  for  much  informa- 
tion respecting  Generals  Davie  and  Marion.  To  Colonel  Robert 
Y.  Hayne,  for  (lie  sketch  of  the  life  and  services  of  Dr.  David 
Ramsay  ;  aiid  to  Colonel  Arthur  P.  Hayne,  for  his  interesting 
account  of  the  battle  of  the  23d  December,  before  New-Orleans. 
To  the  Honourable  Judge  Peters  of  Pennsylvania,  he  is  indebted 
for  many  interesting  Anecdotes  ;  and  feels  particular  obligation  for 


vi  TO  THE  READER. 

the  politeness  with  which,  though  a  stranger  to  him,  they  were 
generously  presented.  To  his  brother  soldiers,  the  Honourable 
Judge  Peter  Johnson  of  Abingdon,  Virginia,  and  Dr.  Matthew 
Irvine,  q/"  Charleston,  he  feels  peculiar  gratitude  for  the  details  of 
the  services  of  the  Legionary  Officers  and  Soldiers,  and  many  of 
the  occurrences  connected  with  the  Army  of  the  South.  Nor  is  he  less 
obliged  to  Dr.  William  Kead,  for  his  interesting  statement  of  the 
sufferings  of  the  Continental  Army,  and  of  the  heroic  fortitude 
with  which  those  intrepid  Sons  of  Freedom  supported  them.  Finally, 
it  affords  him  great  pleasure,  to  express  his  thanks  to  his  friends, 
Mr.  Stephen  Elliott,  Thomas  S.  Grimke,  and  Mitchell  King, 
for  their  judicious  advice  during  the  progress  of  his  Work,  and  aid 
in  its  arrangement  lohen  preparing  for  the  press. 


CONTENTS. 


PACK. 

Introduction, 

1 

Moultrie, 

7 

Second  Regiment, 

12 

Letter  from  Lord  Charles  Mon 

tague  to  General  Moultrie, 

13 

Reply  to  tiiesame, 

14 

Lieut.  Colonel  Isaac  Motte, 

17 

General  Marion, 

18 

Lieut.  Colonel  Peter  Horry, 

29 

Lieut.  Colonel  Mayham, 

31 

PARTISAN  COMMANDERS  OF 
MILITIA. 


General  Sumter, 
General  Pickens, 
General  Davie, 
General  Barnwell, 


DISTINGUISHED  CONTINENTAL 
OFFICERS. 

General  Huger,  55 

General  Morgan,  57 

Colonel  Otho  H.Williams,  59 

Colonel  Howard,  60 

Colonel  Carrington,  61 

Lieutenant  Colonel  Lee,  62 

Lieut.  Colonel  Washington,  68 

General  Greene,  75 

OFFICERS  WHO  FELL  IN  THE 
SOUTHERN  WAR. 

Colonel  Owen  Roberts,  85 

Lieut.  Colonel  John  Laurens,  86 

Sergeant  Jasper,  90 

Wilmott  and  Moore,  91 

Lieut.  Colonel  Richard  Parker,         93 
Captains  Moultrie  and  Neyle,  and 

Lieut>  Colonel  Campbell,  94 

Lieut.  Duval  and  Maj.  Benj.  Huger,  95 

9* 


PAGE. 

Particulars  of  the  gallant  attempt 
to  rescue  General  de  la  Fayette 
from  his  confinement  at  Olmutz,  96 


SURVIVORS  OF  THE  REVO- 
LUTION. 

General  Charles  C.  Pinckney,         104 
General  Thomas  Pinckney,  110 

General  Jackson,  115 

Account  of  the  battle  of  the  23d 
December,  1814,  by  Lieutenant 
Colonel  Arthur  Hayne,  119 

CHARACTER  AND  CONDUCT  OF 
THE  OFFICERS  OF  LEE'S  LE- 
GION. 


Capt.  Joseph  Eggleston, 

Capt.  James  Armstrong, 

Capt.  Ferdinand  O'Neal, 

Capt.  Miciiael  Rudolph, 

Capt.  Handy, 

Lieutenant  Peter  Johnston, 

Lieutenant  John  Middleton, 

Lieutenant  Clement  Carrington, 

Dr  Matthew  Irvine, 

Dr.  Skinner, 

Lieut.  Manning,  and  remarkable 
occurences  leading  to  the  de- 
feat of  Colonel  Pyle, 


123 
125 
127 
128 
1.30 
131 
132 
133 
134 
135 


140 


DISTINGUISHED  SOLDIERS  OF 
THE  LEGION. 


Sergeant  Whaling, 
Sergeant  Mitchell, 
Bulkley  and  Newman, 
Corporal  Cooper, 
Sergeant  Ord, 
Perry  Scott, 


149 
150 
151 
152 
156 
167 


CONTENTS. 


Patriots  in  the  Civil  Line,  and  pri- 
soners confined  as  subjects  for 
retaliation, 

Exiles  to  St.  Angnsfine, 

Prisoners  on  board  tlie  Prison- 
ships, 

Ancient  Battalion  of  Artillery, 


159 
165 


166 
167 


DISTINGUISHED  CHARACTERS 
IN  THE  CIV^IL  DEPARTMENT 
OF  GOVERNMENT 

General  Gadsden,  169 

John  Rutledge,  173 

Edward  Rutledge,  176 

Hugh  Rutledge,  177 

Dr.  David  Ramsay,  178 

William  Henry  Drayton,  183 

John  Edwards,  186 

John  Matthews,  189 

Benjamin  Guerard,  191 

Judge  Burke,  192 

Captain  Richard  Gough,  197 

EXEMPLARY  GOOD  CONDUCT 
OF  THE  CLERGY. 

Bishop  Smith,  199 

Dr.  Percy  and  Rev.  Mr.  Lewis,  200 
Dr.  PurcelU  Rev.   P.  Terquand, 

and  Rev.  Samuel  Warren,  201 

Rev.  Josiah  Smith  and  Rev.  Mr. 

Teniiaiit,  202 

Rev.  Dr.  Furman,  205 

CONDUCT  OF  OUR  AtLIES  THE 
FRENCH,  206 

Baron  de  Carendeffez,  207 

Chevalier  de  Buysson,  ib. 

Chevalier  Duplessis  Mauduit,  208 

Lieutenant  Colonel  Fleury,  211 

Baron  de  Kalb,  ib. 

Marquis  de  la  Fayette,  215 

DISTINGUISHED  NAVAL  OFFI- 
CERS, 217 

Capt.  Manly  and  Capt.  Harraden,  218 
Capt.  Geddes  and  Paul  Jones,  219 
Captain  Barry,  220 

Captain  Barney,  221 

Captain  liiddle,  223 

CONDUCT  OF  THE  WHIG  LA- 
DIES, 224 

Mrs.  Jacob  Motte,  226 

Mrs.  Thomas  Heyward,  227 

Mrs.  Rebecca  Edwards,  228 

Miss  Mary  Anna  Gibbes,  229 

Mrs.  Brewton,  (since  Foster)  230 


PACE. 

Mrs.  Channing,  234 

Mrs.  Charles  Elliott,  235 
Mrs.  D.Hall  and  Mrs.  C.  Pinckney ,  238 
Mrs.  S.  Elliott  and  Mrs.  Isaac 

Holmes,  239 

Mrs.  Richard  Shubrick,  240 

Mrs.  Ralph  Izard,  242 

CONDUCT  OF  LADIES  SUPPORT- 
ING OPPOSITE  PRINCIPLES,  243 

Mrs  M'CulIoch,  &,c.  &c.  244 

Strictures  on  the  conduct  of  the 
British  Commanders  in  the 
South,  246 

Particulars  relative  to  the  death 
of  Colonel  Isaac  Hayne,  250 

Governor  Rutledge's  animad- 
versions on  the  general  con- 
duct of  the  enemy,  delivered 
in  iiis  Speech  to  the  Legisla- 
ture at  Jacksonborough,  256 

DISTINGUISHED  BRITISH 
OFFICERS. 

Lord  Cornwallis,  272 
Lieutenant    Colonel    Archibald 

Campbell,  71st,  277 

Lord  Rawdon,  378 

General  Webster,  280 

Colonel  Small,  282 

Colonel  Tarleton,  284 

Benedict  Arnold,  288 

Major  Andr.^  291 

Captors  of  Andr^,  292 

COMPARATIVE  SUFFERING  OF 
THE  CONTENDING  ARMIES,  295 

The  most  illustrious  Patriots  of 
Great  Britain  opposed  to  the 
American  War,  312 

Letters  of  the  Right  Honourable 
William  Windham,  on  that 
subject,  315 

Notice  of  Botta's  History.  319 

Instances  of  the  benign  interpo- 
sition of  Providence  in  Ame- 
rican affairs,  324 


Robert  Morris, 
Timothy  Pickering, 
Baron  Steuben, 
General  Gates, 
General  Conway, 
General  Charles  Lee, 


333 
338 
340 
345 
351 
352 


CONTENTS. 


XI 


Major  Evan  Edwards, 
General  Scliuylei", 

Quaker  congratulations  on  the 
battle  of  Guilford, 

Failure  of  the  contemplated  at- 
tack on  John's  Island, 

Contemplated  mutiny  of  the 
army  under  General  Greene, 

Evacuation  of  Charleston, 


PACE. 

356 
359 


361 


363 


365 
369 


MISCELLAxNEOUS    ANECDOTES. 


Night  attack    on   tlie    camp  of 

Gen.  Wayne  by  Gurestessego, 

Chief  of  the  Creek  Warriors, 

373 

Major  Maxwell, 

374 

General  William  Butler, 

375 

Gallantry  of  a  Boy  of  14, 

378 

Lieutenant  Ballard  Smith, 

378 

Lieutenant  Foster, 

380 

Lieutenant  John  Rhodes, 

381 

Lieutenant  Parham, 

382 

Mrs.  Wright, 

383 

Deliesseline, 

384 

Captain  Gee, 

385 

Captain  Zeigler, 

386 

'  Fickling,  •    V 

387 

Happy  Escape, 

389 

Characteristic  Anecdotes  of  Gen. 

Washington, 

393 

Old  Lydick, 

394 

Michael  Doclierly, 

396 

Colonel  Menzies, 

398 

Yankee  Captain, 

400 

Exchange  of  Shells, 

400 

Instance  of  Republican  submis- 

sion to  misfortune, 

401 

Levingstone, 

402 

Loaster, 

403 

George  Petrie, 

404 

Remarkable  incident, 

405 

The  uninvited  guest, 

406 

PACE. 

Important  service  of  Major  Ed- 
mund Hyrne,  406 
Lieutenant  Samuel  Seldon,  408 
Instance  of  Tarleton's  severity,  409 
Additional  instance,  409 
Attempt  of  Colonel  Forrest  to 
check  discontent,  and  the  result,  409 


Prayers  for  tlie  King, 

Epigram, 

Satirical  jeu  d'esprit. 

Miss  Franks, 

General    Lee's    letter  to    Miss 

Franks, 
Repartee  of  Major  Upham, 
Sir  Guy  Carlton, 
Captain  Milligan, 
Romantic  Enterprise, 
M'Gill  and  Van  Skiver, 
Captain  Land, 
Judge  Burke, 
Extraordinary  Escape, 
Sergeant  Power, 
Ladies'  petition  in  behalf  of  Co- 
lonel Hayne, 
Duel  between  General  Cadwal- 

lader  and  General  Conway, 
Expulsion  of  Congress  from  Phi- 
ladelphia, 
Lieutenant    Colonel    Butler    of 

Morgan  s  Rifle  Regiment, 
Commodores  Affleck  and  Swee- 
ney. 
Reception  of  General  Greene  at 

Philadelphia, 
Meeting   with    the   Commander 

in  Chief, 
The  eftect  of  Peace  on  the  Sol- 
diers' consequence  in  society. 
Propriety  of  naming  the  fami- 
lies the  most  distinguished  by 
their  revolutionary  services. 
Distinguished  individuals. 
Conclusion. 


411 
411 
412 

412 

414 
416 
417 
417 
419 
420 
424 
426 
426 
427 

428 

430 

431 

433 

434 

435 

436 

437 


439 
440 

4^4 


INTRODUCTION. 


WHILB    I    YET    LIVE,    LET    ME    NOT    LIVE    IN    VAIK." AddisOH. 


Free  from  unwarrantable  prejudice,  I  have  invari- 
ably maintained,  that  the  citizens  of  America  during 
the  war  of  our  Revolution,  had  exhibited  as  splendid 
examples  of  heroic  gallantry,  as  firm  and  iionourable 
adherence  to  the  cause  of  Liberty,  as  ever  adorned  the 
annals  of  any  age  or  country.  If  facts  sanction  this 
opinion,  we  cannot  but  deeply  regret,  that  from  the  en- 
croachments of  time,  perpetually  removing,  not  only 
the  actors  in  many  a  brilliant  achievement,  but  even 
the  witnesses  of  them,  they  will  be  in  the  course  of  a 
few  years  irretrievably  lost.  To  diminish  the  evil,  1 
have  anxiously  endeavoured,  to  engage  some  youthful 
patriot,  to  collect  and  preserve  for  the  benefit  of  future 
generations,  as  many  anecdotes  relative  to  the  war  of 
1776,  as  appear  worthy  of  record,  and  particularly, 
such,  as  have  escaped  the  attention  of  historians. — 
My  effort  has  proved  fruitless,  and  although  I  antici- 

1 


2  INTRODUCTION. 

pate  very  partial  success,  yet  confident  of  meeting  the 
indulgence  of  my  fellow  citizens,  who  must  approve 
my  motive,  I  have  at  length  resolved,  myself  to  under- 
take it. 

To  the  public  I  am  bound  by  peculiar  ties.  In  ad- 
versity they  honoured  me  with  their  confidence,"  and  re- 
warded my  zeal  with  distinguished  marks  of  favour, 
whatever  I  possess,  is  derived  from  their  generosity, 
I  feel  the  obligation  in  all  its  force,  and  know,  that 
death,  come  when  it  may,  must  find  my  debt  of  grati- 
tude uncancelled.* 

I  wish  it  were  possible  in  pursuing  my  plan,  to  ar- 
range the  facts  in  chronological  order,  but  this  I  con- 
sider, from  the  nature  of  the  work,  impracticable,  and 
the  reader  must  therefore  receive  them,  without  such 
connection.  The  anecdotes  are  indeed  of  so  diversified 
a  nature,  that  they  ought  to  appear  as  they  are,  inde- 
pendent of  each  other.  Many  are  of  a  serious  cast, 
and  can  hardly  fail  to  excite  corresponding  sentiments, 
and  deep  reflection,  while  others  detailing  sallies  of 
wit,  or  scenes  of  mirthful  adventure,  are  fitted  only  to 
amuse. 

In  such  a  work  I  am  bound  by  a  double  sense  of 
duty.     First  to  save  from  oblivion,  many  acts  of  cour- 

*  The  author  cannot  sufficiently  lament  that  he  had  but  little  share  in  the 
achievement  of  those  important  events  which  fixed  the  independency  of  the 
United  States.  His  heart  from  the  earliest  dawn  of  the  Revolution  was  devoted 
to  the  cause  of  his  country,  and  he  would  have  been  first  in  the  ranks  of  her 
armies  but  the  Revolution  found  him  a  youth  in  Europe,  in  pursuit  of  his  Colle- 
giate studies,  and  a  parent's  mandate  forbid  it.  When  age  permitted  his  return 
to  America,  his  fortunes  without  a  murmur  were  sacrificed  to  his  principles,  and 
his  life,  to  have  promoted  the  interests  of  America,  would  have  been  yielded 
without  a  sigh.  The  public  witnessed  his  zeal  and  liberally  rewarded  it.  His 
general  gave  him  his  confijdence  and  promotion.  His  fellow  soldiers,  what  he 
must  ever  consider  his  highest  honour,  their  friendship  and  esteem. 


INTHODUCTtON.  S 

age  or  magnanimity,  that  honour  the  patriots  of  our  tie- 
volution,  and  secondly  to  excite  in  the  bosoms  of  our 
youth,  a  laudable  desire  to  emulate  them. 

The  spontaneous  impulse  of  every  heart  is  my  best 
auxiliary.  How  grateful  to  my  young  countrymen 
must  it  be,  to  read  the  encomiums  bestowed  on  their 
ancestors,  to  dwell  on  the  merits  of  those  great  men, 
who  had  wisdom  to  plan  the  deliverance  of  the  United 
States  from  a  foreign  yoke,  resolution  to  attempt  it, 
and  valour  to  insure  their  independence.  In  contem- 
plating the  dignified  firmness  of  their  characters,  the 
extent  of  their  sufferings  and  the  splendor  of  the  ac- 
tions achieved  in  the  accomplishment  of  their  momen- 
tous undertaking,  the  heart  expands  with  gratitude,  the 
soul  with  admiration.  Liberty  so  honourably  gained, 
appears  with  more  fascinating  charms;  is  cherished 
with  imperishable  affections,  and  the  bosom  of  patriot- 
ism feels  with  full  force,  how  sacred  the  obligation  to 
transmit  such  a  blessing,  with  undiminished  lustre,  t6 
posterity.  It  can  only  be  necessary,  to  present  to  view 
the  characters  whose  achievements  I  would  celebrate, 

"  And  by  their  light, 
Shall  every  valiant  youth  with  ardour  move, 
To  do  brave  aets."  ShakspeaRE. 


«  For  who  shall  lightly  say,— that  Fame, 

Is  nothing  but  an  empty  name. 

While  in  that  sound  there  is  a  charm, 

The  nerves  to  brace,  the  heart  to  warm. 

As  thinking  of  the  mighty  dead, 

The  young  from  slothful  couch  shall  start, 

And  vow  with  lifted  hands  outspread, 

Like  them  to  act,  a  noble  part."  BailiS^ 


4  Introduction. 

I  am  still  further  induced  to  persist  in  my  undertak- 
ing, that  I  may  both  by  precept  and  exami)le  bear  tes- 
timony against  a  practice,  in  my  judgment,  decidedly 
prejudicial.  With  such  instances  of  every  public  and 
private  virtue,  as  the  history  of  our  own  country  af- 
fords, I  consider  it  a  serious  error  in  our  system  of 
education,  that  our  youth  receive  their  first  ideas  of  pa- 
triotic excellence,  from  the  annals  of  other  nations. — 
Familiar  with  the  achievements  of  the  heroes  of  an- 
cient times,  the  virtues  and  services  of  the  worthies  of 
their  own  country,  are  seldom  or  but  imperfectly 
known.  They  will  tell  you  of  the  retreat  of  Xeno- 
phon,  before  a  horde  of  barbarians,  while  ignorant  of 
the  masterly  manoeuvring  of  Greene  retiring  before 
the  superior  and  victorious  army  of  Cornwallis. — 
They  will  dwell  with  delight  on  the  sufferings,  energy, 
and  zeal  of  the  virtuous  Alfred,  successfully  resisting 
the^^avagers  of  his  country  ;  while  the  difficulties  and 
dangers  surmounted  by  the  inflexible  Manow  labouring 
under  tenfold  disadvantages,  are  altogether  unknown. 
They  admire  Fabius  as  the  shield,  Marcellus  as  the 
sword  of  Rome,  but  unless  it  is  acquired  incidentally, 
they  either  know  not  at  all,  or  very  imperfectly,  that 
Washington,  by  his  wisdom  and  discretion  in  the  ca- 
binet, his  skill  and  valour  in  the  field,  may  still  be  more 
justly  called,  both  the  sword  and  shield  of  his  country. 
By  this  injudicious  system,  a  prejudice  arises,  which 
from  the  strength  of  early  impressions,  it  is  ever  diffi- 
cult to  shake  off.  Comparisons  are  made  altogether 
to  the  advantage  of  antiquity,  and  an  ambition  to  ar- 
rive- at  excellence  impaired,  by  a  seeming  confession  of 


INTRODUCTION.  5 

inability  to  attain  it.  I  rejoice  to  think  that  this  can- 
not be  an  evil  of"  long  continuance.  The  lives  of  the 
illustrious  patriots  of  oui'  Revolution,  presented  to  view 
by  the  pen  of  intelligence,  a  natural  consequence  must 
en.^ue  : — They  will  learn  to  *'  hold  honour  far  more 
dear  than  life."  If  candidates  for  favie,  admiring  the 
heroes  of  iiome,  will  they  not  with  greater  enthusiasm 
revere  and  emulate  the  valour  of  their  immediate  an- 
cestry ?  If  the  justice  and  magna^iimity  of  Grecian 
worthies  delight  them,  it  is  impossible  not  to  conclude, 
that  these  virtues  will  be  aspired  to,  with  still  higher 
admiration,  when  exemplified  in  the  history  of  their 
own  country. 

Agisilaus  king  of  Sparta,  being  asked,  "  what  ought 
children  to  learn,"  replied,  "that  which  they  ought  to 
practice,  when  they  become  men."  No  sentiment  was 
ever  expressed  more  conformable  to  the  principles  of 
our  government.  Next  to  their  duty  towards  God, 
there  is  not  a  parent  who  ought  not  to  impress  upon 
the  minds  of  his  children,  the  devotion  which  is  due 
their  country ;  and  how  can  this  be  more  effectually 
done,  than  from  the  dawn  of  reason,  to  keep  in  their 
view,  those  virtues,  which  have  raised  the  benefactors 
of  the  republic,  to  immortality.  It  is  not  my  inten- 
tion to  attempt  a  history  of  the  southern  war.  In  free- 
ly offering  strictures  on  the  mode  in  which  it  was  con- 
ducted, opportunity  is  afforded  ot  attaining  the  end  at 
which  I  aim.  A  delineation  of  the  injustice  and  op- 
pression, of  wanton  insult  and  ruthless  severity,  exer- 
cised on  the  one  part,  will  afford  ample  occasion  to  re- 
late the  lirmncss  with  which  they  were  met,  and  to 


^  INTRODUCTION. 

detail  the  animating  examples  of  patient  suffering,  in- 
flexible perseverance  and  intrepidity,  by  which  they 
were  surmounted  on  the  other.  In  animadverting  on 
the  cruelty  and  impolicy  of  the  measures  pursued  I 
shall  be  led  to  criticise  the  conduct  of  the  commanders 
by  whom  they  were  adopted ;  and  this  will  bring  into 
view,  the  prominent  characters  who  opposed  them. — 
I  would  further  observe,  that  as  it  is  my  plan  to  collect 
Anecdotes^  I  shall  not  endeavour  by  indulging  fancy,  to 
give  them  the  advantage  of  attractive  dress.  I  shall 
studiously  aim  at  simplicity  in  detail,  and  laying  no 
claim  to  originality,  be  content,  if  the  merit  is  allowed/ 
of  making  them  useful  and  acceptable  to  my  country- 
men. This  is  the  only  reward  I  desire,  and  it  is  my 
trust  that  I  shall  receive  it. 


ANECDOTES 


OP    THE 


Ht^oltitionat^  Wiav  in  Emtttea. 


MOULTRIE. 

JL  HE  first  conflict  of  the  Carolinians  with  the  ene- 
my, gave  such  reputation  to  the  character  of  the  coun- 
try, and  was  so  highly  creditable  to  General  Moultrie, 
who  commanded  the  post  attacked  on  that  memorable 
day,  (the  28th  of  June)  that  it  may  be  considered  an  act  of 
justice  in  detailing  the  Anecdotes  of  the  Revolutionary 
War,  to  commence  with  giving  the  particulars  of  the  ac- 
tion. The  defence  of  the  pass  at  Sullivan's  Island,  may 
be  compared  with  many  of  the  splendid  achievements 
which  Grecian  eloquence  has  rendered  illustrious. — 
Impressed  with  prejudices  as  strong  as  Xerxes  ever 
cherished  against  Greece,  the  commanders  of  the  Bri- 
tish forces  approached  our  coast,  not  to  conciliate,  but 
subdue.  Exulting  in  the  supposed  superiorty  of  their 
discipline  and  valour,  they  spoke  in  the  language  of 
authority,  and  would  listen  to  no  terms  short  of  un- 
conditional submission.  They  too  had  been  taught  by 
the  insinuations  of  insidious  flattery,  to  entertain  a 
thorough  contempt  for  their  enemy,  and  to  brand  them 


8  MOULTRIE. 

with  the  harshest  appellations  of  infamy  and  reproach ; 
and  the  extraordinary  delay  of  their  niilltar}  operations, 
can  alone  be  accounted  for,  by  tlieir  belief,  that  it  was 
only  necesssary  to  allow  the  Americans  a  sufficient 
time  to  reflect  on  the  critical  situation  ia  which  they 
were  placed,  to  induce  them  to  abandon  the  pass  with- 
out a  struggle,  and  seek  safety  by  flight.  On  the  other 
hand,  the  gallant  Moultrie,  commanding  a  corps,  for- 
midable only  by  their  boldness  and  resolution,  impa- 
tiently waited  their  approcirh.  He  was  not  insensii)le 
of  the  insufficiency  of  a  work  hastily  constructed,  and 
in  every  part  incomplete,  to  afford  the  slselter  requi- 
site against  a  force  so  formidable  as  that  before  him. 
The  advice  of  the  experienced  veteran  Lee,  called  for 
its  abandonment.*  A  necessary  supply  of  ammunition 
was  withheld,  but  seconding  the  bolder  wishes  of  Pres- 
ident Rutledge,t  and  considering  himself  pledged  to 
give  a  proof  to  the  enemy  of  American  valour,  he 
scorned  the  disgrace  of  relinquishing  the  post  he  had 
sworn  to  defend,  and  heroically  prepared  for  action. — 
The  attack  was  commenced  by  the  British  with  intre- 
pidity, and  maintained  throughout  the  course  of  twelve 
hours,  with  a  gallantry  that  would  have  dignified  a 
better  cause,  but  naught  could  subdue  the  firmness  of 
the  garrison,  resolved  to  repel  the  foe,  or  nobly  perish, 
they  received  the  tremendous  fire  of  the  shipping  with 
composure,  and  returned  it  with  terrible  effect,  till 

*  General  Lee  styled  the  post  at  Sullivan's  Island  a  slaughter  pen,  denounced 
Us  defence,  and  proncuiicing  disgrace  on  the  measure,  should  it  be  persisted  in, 
earnestly  requested  the  President  to  order  it  to  be  evacuated. 

t  Happily  for  the  nation,  its  destinies  were  at  that  period,  guided  by  that  in- 
flexible patriot  John  Ruti.edge,  who  confidently  relying  on  Moultrie,  and  his 
intrepid  band,  heroically  replied  to  Lee,  "  That  while  a  soldier  remained  alive 
to  defend  it,  he  would  never  give  his  sanction  to  such  an  order."  The  result 
proved  the  accuracy  of  his  judgment.  The  following  laconic  note  was  at  tlie 
same  time  forwarded  to  Colonel  Moultrie.  "  General  Lee  wishes  you  to 
evacuate  the  fort.  You  will  not  without  au  order  from  me.  I  will  sooner  cut 
«),ff  my  hand  thaa  write  one.  John  Rutledge." 


MOULTRIE.  9 

valour  accomplished,  what  prudence  had  declared  im- 
practicable, and  the  retreat  of  the  assailants,  adorned 
the  brows  of  every  individual  concerned,  with  laurels 
that  can  never  fade. 

The  subsequent  good  conduct  of  General  Moultrie, 
increased  his  military  reputation  and  secured  to  him 
the  perfect  confidence  and  respect  of  his  fellow  sol- 
diers, and  warm  applause  of  his  country.  He  engag- 
ed a  British  force,  on  Port  Royal  Island,  with  brilliant 
success,  and  conducted  the  retreat  of  a  division  of  the 
army  on  the  invasion  of  Provost,  with  an  ability  that 
saved  the  capital.  His  correspondence  with  Lord 
Charles  Montague,  while  a  prisoner  at  Haddrell's, 
sufficiently  proves  the  steadiness  of  his  principles  and 
incorruptible  integrity.  The  Eulogy  to  his  memory,* 
published  by  order  of  the  State  Society  of  the  Cincin- 
nati, of  which  he  was  President,  gives  ample  testimo- 
ny of  the  veneration  and  affection  entertained  towards 
him  by  its  members,  and  as  it  contains  a  just  estimate 
of  his  private  virtues  as  vvell  as  of  his  public  utility, 
will  not  1  hope  be  considered  irrelevant,  nor  prove  un- 
acceptable to  the  admirers  of  patriotic  virtue. 


EULOGY. 

The  27th  of  September,  1805,  will  long  be  remem- 
bered with  interest  by  every  virtuous  citizen  of  South 
Carolina.  On  that  day,  deeply  regretted  by  every  in- 
dividual who  had  sense  to  aj)preciate,  and  gratitude  to 
acknowledge  the  pre-eminence  of  his  patriotic  virtues, 
died,  in  the  seventy-fifth  year  of  his  age,  the  venerable 
Major  General  Moultrie,  who,  by  uniform  suffrage,  had 
presided  over  this  Society  from  its  first  institution. — 
As  a  revolutionary  character,  his  steadiness  in  princi- 

*  Written  by  the  Author. 

2 


10  JMOULTRIE. 

pie,  his  valour  in  the  field,  were  particularly  conspi- 
cuous. As  a  soldier,  it  was  his  fortune  to  check,  and 
with  an  effect  that  paralized  every  subsequent  exertion, 
the  first  efforts  of  a  powerful  and  inveterate  foe,  for 
the  subjugation  of  his  country.  Bold  as  Leonidas,  he 
defended  the  strait  committed  to  his  charge,  against 
a  superior  force,  that  had  been  deemed  irresistible ;  and, 
more  fortunate  than  the  Spartan  hero,  lived  in  honour- 
able old  age,  under  the  shade  of  his  laurels,  to  share 
with  a  grateful  nation,  the  liberty  his  successful  exer- 
tions had  so  happily  contributed  to  establish.  As  a 
patriot  it  was  equally  his  glory,  disdainfully  to  reject 
the  bribes  of  a  nation,  who,  repeatedly  foiled  by  his 
valour,  hoped  with  better  success  to  corrupt  this  integri- 
ty, and  like  another  Fabricius  to  show  to  the  admiring 
world,  how  insignificant  the  power  of  gold,  to  shake 
the  principles  of  a  heart,  warmed  with  the  genuine 
glow  of  heaven-born  liberty.  In  private  life,  his  dis- 
position was  frank,  liberal,  sincere,  his  manners  sim- 
ple and  conciliating.  Duplicity  and  disguise  were 
odious  to  a  nature  fixed  on  the  firmest  basis  of  candour 
and  truth.  As  a  husband,  father,  master,  he  was  af- 
fectionate, gentle,  most  indulgent ;  in  short,  as  has  been 
said  of  a  great  statesman,  and  distinguished  patriot, 
"  he  was  every  thing  to  his  family,  but  what  he  gave 
up  to  his  country."  When  in  future  ages  men  shall 
seek  examples  of  distinguished  worth  and  excellence, 
Fame  with  delight,  shall  tell  the  unshaken  faith,  and 
gallant  deeds  of  Moultrie.  While,  as  brother  sol- 
diers, we  ofier  this  sincere,  though  inadequate  tribute 
of  respect  to  his  memory,  it  is  with  pleasure  we  re- 
flect, that  the  artillery,  cavalry,  and  several  volunteer 
corps  of  the  city,  together  with  a  considerable  concourse 
of  the  most  respectable  and  patriotic  of  our  citizens,  at- 
tended his  body  to  the  grave,  testifying  their  respect  for 
his  virtues,  and  unfeigned  sorrow  for  the  event,  which 
deprived  his  country  of  one  of  its  most  distinguished, 
and  estimable  public  characters." 


.  MOULTRIE.  M 

The  happy  escape  of  the  general  during  the  siege  of 
CharU'Ston,  deserves  to  be  recorded.  The  fatigue  ex- 
perienced by  severe  duty  on  the  lines,  had  so  much 
overcome  him,  that  to  renew  his  energies,  he  took  up 
his  quarters  for  one  night,  in  Elliott's  buildings,  near 
the  centre  of  the  city,  where  there  was  the  least  chance 
of  interruption,  to  the  rest  he  sought  for.  A  tremen- 
dous fire  about  the  dawning  of  day,  roused  him  from 
his  slumbers,  he  started  from  his  bed,  and  was  hurrying 
on  his  regimentals,  when  a  shot  striking  the  house, 
entered  the  apartment,  and  lodged  in  the  bed  from 
which  he  had  risen.  The  delay  of  a  few  moments, 
must  have  proved  fatal  to  him. 

The  venerable  Captain  Richard  Bahon  Baker,  now 
residing  on  Sullivan's  Island,  within  view  of  the  scene 
of  his  early  achievements,  and  Mr.  David  Adams,  of 
Charleston,  who  served  as  a  cadet,  in  the  company 
commanded  by  Captain  Shubrick,  alone  remain  of  the 
intrepid  band,  who  fought  under  Moultrie,  on  the 
memorable  28th  of  June,  1776. 


ANECDOTE  OF  JOHN  RUTLEDGE. 

It  was  my  good  fortune,  many  years  after  this  cele- 
brated victory,  to  meet  Governor  Rutledge  on  the  spot, 
where  the  action  of  the  28th  of  June  was  fought,  when 
the  recollection  of  the  triumphs  of  the  day,  filling  his 
soul  with  enthusiastic  delight,  he  exclaimed  :  "  I  re- 
member the  engagement  as  if  it  were  fought  but  yes- 
terday !  I  remember  my  perfect  confidence  in  Moultrie ! 
I  have  all  the  scene  before  me  too,  when  I  visited  the 
post,  to  express  the  thanks  of  the  country  to  the  heroes 
who  had  defended  it.  There  stood  Moultrie,  there 
Motte,  there  Marion,  Horry,  and  the  intrepid  band, 
whom  they  commanded.  I  addressed  them  with  an 
energy  of  feeling,  that  I  had  never  before  experienced, 


12  MOULTRIE. 

and  if  ever  I  had  pretension  to  eloquence,  it  was  at 
that  moment." 

I  will  not  dwell  on  a  subject,  to  which  it  is  impossi- 
ble for  me  to  do  justice,  but  briefly  state,  that  inspired 
b}'  it,  and  animated  as  if  the  objects  of  his  commenda- 
tion were  immediately  before  him,  he  delivered  himself 
in  an  eloquent  and  impressive  strain  of  eulogy,  so  per- 
fectly fascinating,  that  had  his  first  address  but  borne 
a  shadow  of  resemblance  to  it,  there  could  not  have 
been  a  man  among  his  auditors,  who  would  not  have 
been  proud  to  die,  for  liberty  and  his  country.  I  have 
often  heard  of  the  strong  impression  made  at  the  mo- 
ment of  delivery  by  this  celebrated  harangue.  Certain 
it  is,  that  under  its  animating  influence,  new  honours 
crowned  the  valiant  defenders  of  the  post,  and  to  the 
last,  the  gallant  second  regiment,  were  covered  with 
glory. 

THE    SECOND    REGIMENT. 

Proud  of  the  encomiums  bestowed  on  their  valour, 
encouraged  by  the  animating  address  of  the  governor, 
to  aim  at  the  achievement  of  new  honours,  the  feelings 
of  the  gallant  second  regiment,  v^^ere  still  more  highly 
excited,  when  Mrs.  Barnard  Elliott,  presenting  an  ele- 
gant pair  of  colours,  thus  addressed  them  : 

"  Gentlemen  Soldiers, 

"  Your  gallant  behaviour,  in  defence  of  your  country, 
entitles  you  to  the  highest  honours !  Accept  of  these 
two  standards  as  a  reward  justly  due  to  your  regiment, 
and  I  make  not  the  least  doubt,  but  that  under  heaven's 
protection,  you  will  stand  by  them  as  long  as  they  can 
wave  in  the  air  of  liberty." 

Her  anticipations  were  fully  justified  in  the  sequel. 
During  the  assault  at  Savannah,  they  were  both  planted 
on  tiie  British  lines.  The  statement  which  I  am  about 
to  give  of  the  event,  differs  widely  from  that  which  has 


MOULTRIE.  13 

been  generally  received  ;  but  that  it  is  correct,  cannot 
be  donlued,  as  it  was  afforded  me  by  Lieutenant  James 
Legare,  whose  services  and  character,  entitle  him  to 
all  credit.  He  was  present  in  the  action  and  immedi- 
ately in  front  of  the  colours  at  the  time  that  the  officers 
who  bore  them  were  killed.  Lieutenant  Brush,  sup- 
ported by  Sergeant  Jasper,  carried  the  one,  Lieutenant 
Grey,  supported  by  Serseant  McDonald,  the  other. 
Brush  being  wounded  early  in  the  action,  delivered  his 
standard  to  Jasper',  for  its  better  security,  who,  already 
wounded,  on  receiving  a  second  shot,  restored  it.  Brush 
at  the  moment  receiving  a  mortal  wound,  fell  into  the 
ditch,  with  the  colours  under  him,  which  occasioned 
their  remaining  in  the  hands  of  the  enemy.  Lieutenant 
Grey  receiving  a  mortal  wound,  his  colours  were  seized 
by  McDonald,  who  planted  them  on  the  redoubt,  but 
on  hearing  an  order  to  retreat,  plucked  them  up  again, 
and  carried  them  off  in  safety. 

It  is  liigiily  grateful  to  me,  to  recollect  an  occurrence 
which  strongly  evinces  how  deeply  the  love  of  coun- 
try is  im{)ressed  on  the  human  heart.  Meeting  an 
officer  in  the  British  service,  who  was  a  native  of  Ca- 
rolina, in  the  streets  of  Edinburgh,  shortly  after  the 
accounts  of  Moultrie's  gallant  defence  of  his  post  had 
reached  Europe  :  He  said,  as  he  approached  me,  "  I 
see  triumi)h  in  your  countenance,  and  do  not  wonder 
at  it.  I  cannot  but  lament  that  his  majesty's  fleet  has 
been  beaten,  but  as  the  event  has  happened,  I  rejoice 
that  the  victory  has  been  gained  by  Carolinians.'''' 


LETTER  FROM  LORD  C.  MONTAGUE  TO  GENERAL  MOULTRIE. 

«M«rcA  11 //«,  1781. 

"  Sir, — A  sincere  wish  to  promote  what  may  be  to  your  advantage, 

induces  me  now  to  write ;  and  the  freedom  with  which  we  have  often 

conversed,  makes  me  hope  that  you  will  not  take  amiss  what  I  say. 

My  own  principles  respecting  the  commencement  of  this  unfortunate 


14  MOULTRIE. 

war  are  well  known  to  you,  and  of  course,  you  can  conceive  what  I 
mention  is  out  of  friendship.  You  have  fought  bravely  in  the  cause 
of  your  country  for  many  years,  and,  in  my  opinion,  fulfilled  the  duty 
every  individual  owes  to  it.  You  have  had  your  share  of  hardships 
and  difficulties,  and  if  the  contest  is  still  to  be  continued,  younger  hands 
should  now  take  the  toil  from  you.  You  have  now  a  fair  opening  of 
quitting  that  service,  with  honour  and  reputation  to  yourself,  by  going 
to  Jamaica  with  me.  The  world  will  readily  attribute  it  to  the  known 
friendship  that  has  subsisted  between  us  :  and  by  quitting  this  country 
for  a  short  time,  you  will  avoid  any  disagreeable  conversations,  and 
might  return  at  leisure,  to  take  possession  of  your  estates  for  yourself 
and  family.  Appointed  to  command  a  regiment,  the  proof  I  can  give 
you  of  my  sincerity  is,  that  I  will  quit  that  command  to  you  with 
pleasure,  and  serve  under  you.  I  earnestly  wish  that  I  could  be  the 
instrument  to  effect  what  I  propose,  as  I  think  it  would  be  a  great 
means  towards  promoting  that  reconciliation  we  all  wish  for :  a 
thousand  circumstances  concur  to  make  this  a  proper  period  for  you 
to  embrace  :  our  old  acquaintance — my  having  been  formerly  gov- 
ernor of  this  province  :  the  interest  I  have  with  the  present  com- 
manders. 

"  I  give  you  my  honour,  what  I  write  is  entirely  unknown  to  the 
commandant,  or  to  any  one  else  ;  so  shall  your  answer  be,  if  you 
favour  me  with  one.     Think  well  of  me.     Yours  sincerely. 

CHARLES  MONTAGUE." 

*•'  General  Moultrie." 


TO    LORD    CHARLES    MONTAGUE. 

«  HaddreWs  Point,  March  I2th,  17 SI. 
"My  Lord, — I  received  your's  this  morning  by  Fisher,  I  thank  you 
for  your  wish  to  promote  my  advantage,  but  am  much  surprised  at 
yoQr  proposition.  I  flattered  myself,  that  I  stood  in  a  more  favoura- 
ble light  with  you.  I  shall  write  with  the  same  freedom,  with  which 
we  used  to  converse,  and  doubt  not  you  will  receive  it  with  the  same 
candour.  I  have  often  heard  you  express  your  sentiments  respecting 
tliis  unfortunate  war,  when  you  thought  the  Americans  injured  ;  but 
am  now  astonished  to  find  you  taking  an  active  part  against  them  ; 
though  not  fighting  particularly  on  the  continent,  yet  seducing  their 
soldiers  away,  to  enlist  in  the  British  service,  is  nearly  similar. 


MOULTRIE.  15 

"  My  Lord,  you  are  pleased  to  compliment  me  with  having  fought 
bravely  in  my  country's  cause  for  many  years,  and  in  your  opinion, 
fulfilled  the  duty  every  individual  owes  to  it.  I  differ  very  widely 
whh  you,  in  thinking  that  I  have  discharged  my  duty  to  my  country, 
while  it  is  still  deluged  in  blood,  and  overrun  with  British  troops,  who 
exercise  the  most  savage  cruehies.  When  I  entered  into  this  contest, 
I  did  it  with  the  most  mature  deliberation,  and  with  a  determined  re- 
solution, to  risk  my  life  and  fortune  in  the  cause.  The  hardships  I 
have  gone  through,  I  look  back  upon  with  the  greatest  pleasure  and 
honour  to  myself.  I  shall  continue  to  go  on  as  I  have  begun,  that 
my  example  may  encourage  the  youths  of  America  to  stand  forth  in 
defence  of  their  rights  and  liberties.  You  call  uf)on  me  now,  and  tell 
me  I  have  a  fair  opening  of  quitting  that  service  with  honour  and  re- 
])utation  to  myself,  by  going  with  you  to  Jamaica.  Good  God  !  is  it 
possible  that  such  an  idea  could  arise  in  the  breast  of  a  man  of  honour. 
I  am  sorry  you  should  imagine,  I  have  so  little  regard  for  my  own  re- 
putation, as  to  listen  to  such  dishonourable  proposals ;  would  you 
wish  to  have  the  man  whom  you  have  honoured  with  your  friendship 
play  the  traitor  ?  Surely  not.  You  say  by  quitting  this  country  for 
a  short  time,  I  might  avoid  disagreeable  conversations,  and  might  re- 
turn at  my  own  leisure,  to  take  possession  of  my  estates  for  m.yself 
and  family  ;  but  you  have  forgot  to  tell  me  how  I  am  to  get  rid  of  the 
feelings  of  an  injured  honest  heart,  and  where  to  hide  myself  from 
myself;  could  I  be  guilt;/  of  so  much  baseness,  I  should  hate  myself 
.and  shun  mankind.  This  would  be  a  fatal  exchange  from  my  pres- 
ent situation,  with  an  easy  and  approved  conscience  of  having  done 
my  duty  and  conducted  myself  as  a  man  of  honour.  My  Lord,  I  am 
sorry  to  observe,  that  I  feel  your  friendship  much  abated,  or  you  would 
not  endeavour  to  prevail  upon  me  to  act  so  base  a  part.  You  earn- 
estly wish  you  could  bring  it  about,  as  you  think  it  will  be  the  means 
of  bringing  about  that  reconciliation  that  we  all  wish  for.  I  wish  for 
a  reconciliation  as  much  as  any  man,  but  only  upon  honourable 
terms.  The  repossessing  of  my  estates  ;  the  offer  of  the  command  of. 
your  regiment,  and  the  honour  you  propose  of  serving  under  me,  are 
paltry  considerations  to  the  loss  of  my  reputation ;  no,  not  the  fee 
simple  of  that  valuable  Island  of  Jamaica,  should  induce  me  to  part 
with  my  integrity.  My  Lord,  as  you  have  made  one  proposal,  give 
me  leave  to  make  another,  which  will  be  more  honourable  to  us  both ; 
as  you  have  an  interest  with  your  commanders,  I  would  have  you  pur- 
pose the  withdrawing  the  British  troops  from  the  continent  of  America, 


16  MOULTRIE. 

allow  the  independence,  and  propose  a  peace.  This  being  done,  I 
will  use  my  interest  with  my  commanders  to  accept  of  the  terms,  and 
allow  Great  Britain  a  free  trade  with  America.  INly  Lord,  I  would 
make  one  proposal,*  but  my  situation  as  a  prisoner,  circumscribes  me 
Avithin  certain  bounds,  I  must  therefore  conclude,  with  allowing  you 
the  free  liberty  to  make  what  use  of  this  you  tliink  proper.  Think 
better  of  me.     I  am  my  Lord,  your  Lordship's  most  obedient  humble 

servant, 

WM.  MOULTRIE. 

*  "  AVhich  was  to  advise  liiin  to  come  over  to  the  Americans :  this  propo- 
sal I  could  not  make  when  on  paro\e."— Moultrie's  Rerolulion. 

Tiie  publication  of  this  note  has  greatly  mortified  mc.  1  hud  always  be- 
lieved, that  nothing  but  the  restriction  imposed  by  his  parole,  had  preven- 
ted General  Moultrie  from  making  an  appeal  to  the  sword  to  convince  Lord 
C.  Montague,  how  keenly  he  felt  the  insult  of  his  degrading  offer. 


MOTTE,  17 


LIEUT.  COL.  ISAAC  MOTTE. 

Moultrie,  on  the  28th  of  June,  was  nobly  support- 
ed by  his  compainions  in  arms.  Lieut.  Col.  Motte, 
the  second  in  command,  educated  as  a  soldier,  had 
served  with  distinction  in  Canada,  in  the  war  of  1756, 
and  in  the  engagement  with  Sir  Peter  Parker,  gave  a 
spirited  demonstration  of  what  might  have  been  ex- 
pected from  his  subsequent  exertions.  His  influence 
and  abilities,  were  considered  by  the  enemy,  of  the 
highest  importance,  and  bribes,  such  as  might  have 
tempted  any  other  than  an  inflexible  patriot,  were  of- 
fered to  induce  him  to  join  the  standard  which  he  had 
often  with  gallantry  supported.  But  having  embraced 
and  sworn  devotion  to  the  cause  of  America,  they  were 
indignantly  rejected,  and  to  the  last,  his  enthusiasm 
received  the  most  unlimited  applause.  It  is  much  to 
be  lamented,  that  so  meritorious  an  officer  should  at 
an  early  period  of  the  war  have  quitted  a  service  to 
which  he  did  great  honour.  But,  with  the  public  weal 
continually  in  view,  we  find  him  in  the  civil  depart- 
ment of  government  an  active  agent,  and  so  much  to 
the  increase  of  his  reputation,  that  on  the  establish- 
ment of  the  Federal  Union,  he  was  immediately  ap- 
pointed by  President  Washington,  to  a  post  of  trust 
and  emolument,  which  he  enjoyed  to  the  end  of  his 
days. 


I^IARION. 


GENERAL  MARION. 

Among  the  companions  of  Moultrie,  there  was  none 
who,  at  a  future  clay,  attained  as  much  celebrity  as 
Francis  Marion. 

To  an  officer  of  so  ardent  and  honourable  feeling, 
the  accident*  which  prevented  his  acting  with  his  gal- 
lant associates  of  the  second  regiment  in  defence  of 
the  capital,  must  have  proved  peculiarly  afflicting.  He 
had  shared  with  them,  the  toils  and  dangers  of  battle, 
and  fully  partaken  of  their  well  earned  fame.  To  be 
sei)arated,  therefore,  at  a  moment  when  new  difficul- 
ties presented  themselves,  and  a  threatning  cloud  over- 
shadowed tlie  destines  of  a  community,  whose  hopes 
of  security,  rested  on  their  exertions,  and  those  of  their 
companions  inarms,  must  necessaril/have  excited  his 
deepest  regrets.  Yet,  great  as  the  affliction  must  have 
been  to  individual  feeling,  it  cannot  be  otherwise 
considered,  than  as  the  event  that  more  than  any  other, 
gave  ultimate  security,  happiness,  and  independency, 
to  his  country.  I  never  undertook  an  essay,  with  so 
little  hope  of  executing  it  with  satisfaction  to  myself, 
and  justice  to  the  hero,  whose  actions  I  would  cele- 
brate ;  as  in  attempting  to  delineate  the  character  and 
chivalric  gallantry,  of  General  Marion. 

*  Lieut.  Col.  Marion  had  dined  a  few  days  previously  to  the  siege  of 
Ciiarleston,  witli  a  friend  residing  in  the  house  next  to  Roupell's,  in  Tradd- 
street,  and  to  the  east  of  it.  A  mistaken  idea  of  hospitality  had  occasioned 
his  entertainer,  according  to  the  universal  practice  of  the  day,  to  turn  the 
key  upon  his  guests,  to  prevent  escape,  till  each  individual  should  be  gorged 
to  a  surfeit  with  wine.  Marion,  attempting  to  make  his  escape  by  a  window, 
fell  into  the  street  and  dislocated  his  ancle  in  a  shocking  manner.  The  ac- 
cident saved  him  from  captivity.  Non-effectives  were  ordered  to  retire  from 
the  city.  His  freedom  gave  safety  to  his  country.  From  his  active  spirit 
arose  that  determined  opposition,  to  the  British  power,  that  blasted  their 
fondly  cherished  expectation  of  supremacy,  and  ultimately  caused  their  ex- 
pulsion from  the  state. 


MARION.  19 

Fortunately  neither  the  pure  exalted  traits  of  his 
patriotism,  nor  the  brilliant  achievements  of  his  sword, 
need  the  aid  of  embellishment.  His  virtues  speak  di- 
rectly to  the  heart.  His  victories  are  emblazoned  in 
their  momentous  consequences  to  his  country.  What 
greater  praise  can  be  bestowed  on  his  character,  than 
to  say, — and  where  is  there  a  man  that  will  deny  its 
justice, — that  to  the  most  exalted  sentiments,  he  united 
the  most  charming  simplicity  of  manners;  and,  to 
the  courage  of  a  soldier,  an  inexhaustible  fund  of 
humanity.  Of  his  pre-eminent  ability  as  a  partisan 
officer,  successfully  o{)posing  an  active  and  enterprising 
enemy,  with  an  inferiority  of  force  that  is  scarcely 
credible — there  can  exist  no  doubt.  He  entered  the 
field  without  men — without  resources  of  any  kind,  and 
at  a  period,  when  a  great  proportion  of  the  inhabitants 
of  the  district  in  which  he  commanded,  either  from  a 
conviction  of  the  inutility  of  resistance,  or  the  goad- 
ings  of  unceasing  persecution,  had  made  their  submis- 
sion to  the  enemy.  To  concealment,  he  was  indebted 
for  security — and  stratagem  supplied  the  place  of  force. 
Yet  always  on  the  alert — striking  where  least  expect- 
ed— retiring  when  no  advantage  could  be  hoped  for  by 
exposure,  he  progressively  advanced  in  the  career  of 
success,  till  a  superiority  was  obtained  that  put  down 
all  opposition.  Far  more  disposed  essentially  to  benefit 
his  country,  than  to  give,  by  brilliant  enterprise,  increase 
to  his  own  military  reputation,  his  first  care  was  the 
preservation  of  the  troops  whom  he  commanded,  by 
studiously  avoiding  an  unnecessary  hazard  of  their  lives. 
It  was  this  prudential  conduct,  that  so  frequently  occa- 
sioned a  temporary  retirement  into  fastnesses,  where 
pursuit  was  rarely  ventured  on,  and  if  persisted  in,  in- 
variably attended  with  discomfiture  and  disgrace. — 
But,  did  occasion  invite  to  victory — did  carelessness  in 
command,  or  the  idea  of  security  arising  from  distance 
put  the  enemy,  though  but  for  an  instant,  off  their 


^0  MARION. 

guard, — the  rapidity  of  his  movements,  the  impetuosity 
of  his  attacks  never  failed  to  render  the  blow  inflicted 
decisive,  and  their  destruction  complete.  Victory  af- 
forded additional  claim  to  api)lause.  Giving  the  rein 
to  the  most  intrepid  gallantry,  and  in  battle  exhibiting 
all  the  fire  and  impetuosity  of  youth,  there  never  was 
an  enemy  who  yielded  to  his  valour,  who  had  not 
cause  to  admire  and  eulogize  his  subsequent  humanity. 
The  strictness  of  the  discipline  invariably  maintained, 
prevented  every  species  of  irregularity  among  his  troops. 
His  soul,  was  his  country's — his, pride,  tlie  rigid  ob- 
servance of  her  laws.  His  ambition,  to  defend  her 
rights,  and  preserve  immaculate  her  honour  and  her 
fame.  "  It  would  have  been  as  easy  to  turn  the  Sun 
from  his  course,  as  Marion  from  the  paths  of  honour." 
A  memorable  instance  of  his  attachment  to  an  honest 
fame,  is  thus  recorded  in  an  Oration,  delivered  on  the 
4th  of  July,  1797,  before  the  Revolution  and  Cincin- 
nati Societies.* 

"  A  motion  being  made  in  the  Legislature,  immedi- 
ately subsequent  to  the  war,  to  exempt  from  investiga- 
tion the  conduct  of  the  partisan  corps  of  militia,  who 
from  the  nature  of  the  service  in  which  they  had  been 
engaged,  were  supposed  necessarily  to  have  committed 
irregularities.  The  venerable  Marion,  the  flush  of 
virtuous  indignation  overspreading  his  countenance, 
nobly  demanded  that  his  name  should  be  expunged  from 
the  Bill.  "  For  if"  said  he  "  in  the  course  of  com- 
mand, I  have  in  a  single  instance  departed  from  the 
strict  line  of  propriety,  or  given  the  slightest  cause  of 
complaint  to  any  individual  whatever,  justice  requires, 
that  I  should  sufler  for  it»" 

Of  his  military  prowess,  innumerable  instances  croud 
upon  my  memory.  But,  before  I  attempt  to  detail 
them,  I  would  gladly  speak  of  his  uniform  forbearance, 

*  By  the  Author. 


MARION.  .  21 

tenderness,  and  attention  to  the  unfortunates  who  had 
in  the  unguarded  moments  of  despondency,  swerved 
from  the  strict  line  of  duty — and  appeared  to  have  for- 
gotten the  devotion  pledged  to  their  country.  He 
was  never  heard  to  upbraid  them.  He  sought  not 
by  the  exercise  of  implacable  resentment  to  drive 
them  to  desperation.  He  knew  the  frailty  of  human 
nature,  and  made  proper  allowances  for  it.  He 
was  sensible  that  many  an  individual,  to  save  his 
family  from  the  impending  encroachments  of  absolute 
want — to  protect  them  under  the  ravages  of  disease, 
likely  to  rob  him  of  the  children  of  his  affection,  the 
wife  of  his  bosom,  his  friends,  his  fortune — had  reluc- 
tantly given  his  promise  of  submission,  while  every 
sentiment  of  his  heart,  every  wish  that  it  cherished,  was 
in  unison  and  coincided  with  the  patriotic  principles 
of  his  country.  He  blamed  their  errors,  but  attempted 
not  to  correct  them  by  coercion.  The  impolicy  of  the 
enemy  he  justly  counted  upon  as  a  powerful  auxiliary, 
and  making  mercy  and  gentleness  the  guides  of  his 
conduct,  by  the  suavity  and  conciliation  of  his  man- 
ners, not  only  reconciled  them  to  themselves,  and  re- 
vived the  hopes  of  a  pardon  despaired  of,  but  added 
greater  increase  to  the  strength  of  the  armies  of  his 
country  than  could  have  been  obtained  by  the  most 
decisive  victory.  The  simplicity  of  conduct,  preserved 
under  all  circumstances  was  above  praise  ;  the  cheer- 
fulness with  which  he  endured  privations,  surpassed 
encomium.  An  anecdote  is  related  of  him,  of  the 
authenticity  of  which,  many  of  his  followers  can  stilt 
give  testimony.  I  name  one  of  them,  Lieut.  J.  H. 
Stevens,  of  Mayham's  regiment,  who  was  an  eye  wit- 
ness of  the  occurrence. 

A  British  officer  was  sent  from  the  garrison  at 
Georgetown,  to  negotiate  a  business  interesting  to  both 
armies;  when  this  was  concluded, and  the  officer  about 
to  return,  the  general  said,  "  If  it  suits  your  conve- 


^  MARION'. 

nience  sir,  to  remain  for  a  short  period,  I  shall  be  ^lad 
of  your  company  to  dinner."  The  mild  and  dignified 
simplicily  of  Marion's  manners,  had  already  produced 
their  effect ;  and,  to  prolong  so  interesting  an  inter- 
view, the  invitation  was  accepted.  The  entertainment 
was  served  upon  pieces  of  bark,  and  consisted  entirely 
of  roasted  potatoes,  of  which  the  general  eat  heartibs 
requesting  his  guest  to  profit  by  his  example,  repeating 
the  old  adage,  that  "  hunger  was  an  excellent  sauce." 
"  But  surely  general,"  said  the  officer,  "  this  cannot 
be  your  ordinary  fare."  "  Indeed  it  is  sir,"  he  replied, 
"  and  we  are  fortunate  on  this  occasion,  entertaining 
company^  to  have  more  than  than  our  usual  allow- 
ance." 

It  is  said,  that  on  his  return  to  Georgetown,  this  officer 
immediately  declared  his  conviction,  that  men  who 
could  without  a  murmur  endure  the  difficulties  and 
dangers  of  the  field,  and  contentedly  relish  such  sim- 
ple and  scanty  fare,  were  not  to  be  subdued  ;  and, 
resigning  his  commission,  immediately  retired  from 
the  service. 

To  the  honour  of  his  humanity,  it  may  be  further 
added,  that  he  never  suffered  insidt  to  aggravate  the 
misfortunes  of  the  families  of  the  tories  steadily  adher- 
ing to  the  British  cause  ;  but,  on  the  contrary,  assuaged 
their  sufferings,  and  used  every  effort  to  reclaim  the 
deluded  enthusiasts,  by  whom  they  were  abandoned. 
By  such  conduct,  a  number  of  inveterate  enemies  were 
converted  into  useful  citizens,  and  many  a  hardy  sol- 
dier given  to  the  republic,  whose  services  had  other- 
wise been  irretrievably  lost.  Independent  of  the  glory 
obtained  in  partisan  warfare,  General  Marion  acquired 
great  increase  of  reputation  by  the  assistance  bestowed 
and  judicious  conduct  exhibited,  in  conducting  the 
sieges  of  the  captured  posts  held  by  the  enemy.  At 
Georgetown,  Fort  Watson,  Fort  Motte  and  Granby, 
his  activity  was  rewarded  by  the  most  flattering  enco- 


MAJRION.  23 

miums  of  his  commander.  The  blow  inflicted  on  the 
cavalry  of  the  enemy,  drawn  into  an  ambuscade  near 
Parker's  Ferry,  so  effectually  checked  their  spirit  of 
marauding,  that  in  that  vicinity  they  were  never  known 
to  appear  again.  His  gallantry  at  Eutaw,  gave  in- 
crease to  his  fame,  and  there  exists  not  a  doubt,  but 
that  naught  but  their  rapid  retirement  to  the  vicinity 
of  Charleston,  saved  their  entire  army  from  captivity. 
When  such  a  succession  of  military  achievement,  such 
a  display  of  exalted  virtue,  was  daily  shown,  it  is  not 
necessary  to  bestow  the  homage  of  higher  admiration. 
One  fact  however  cannot  be  forgotten,  and  is  truly 
worthy  of  record.  With  the  end  of  the  war,  the  poli- 
tical animosities  of  General  Marion  expired.  His 
magnanimity  si)urned  the  thought  of  adding  to  the 
miseries  of  men  who  were  no  longer  in  a  situation  to 
do  injury,  and  whose  i)unishment  compelled  to  forego 
the  delights  of  cherished  home,  to  wander  exiles  in  a 
foreign  land,  was  fully  proportioned  to  the  extent  of 
their  offences.  While,  therefore,  to  the  retiring  refugees, 
the  supplies  were  uniformly  denied,  which  coukl  con- 
tribute to  the  comfort  of  their  families,  General 
Marion,  through  the  interposition  of  their  friends, 
generously  permitted  every  comfort  and  necessary  re- 
freshment to  be  conveyed  to  them  ;  and  the  blessings 
of  the  afflicted  rested  on  him. 

Of  the  conduct  and  character  of  so  good  and  great 
a  man  as  General  Marion,  some  further  details  will 
not,  I  trust,  prove  unacceptable.* 

The  friends  of  loyalty,  adherents  to  the  British 
armies,  closely  united,  and  possessing  unbounded  in- 
fluence betwixt  the  two  Pedee  rivers,  were  always  on 
the  alert  and  caused  so  much  apnoyance,  that  the  whig 
inhabitants  in  their  vicinity,  who  would  otherwise  have 

*  They  were  furnished  me  by  the  venerable  patriot,  Mr.  Keating  Simoms, 
who  acted  eis  his  Brigade  Major,  and  whose  word  is  a  sufficient  testimony 
of  their  correctness  and  authenticity. 


24  MARION. 

been  actively  employed  against  the  enemy,  were  com- 
pelled to  remain  at  home,  to  check  their  depredations, 
and  give  security  and  protection  to  their  families.  To 
paralize  their  activity,  which  was  a  perpetual  source 
of  anxiety,  more  especially  as  their  numbers  were  three 
times  as  great  as  those  of  his  own  troops,  General 
Marion  with  judicious  policy,  entered  into  a  truce  for 
a  year,  by  which  it  was  stipulated,  that  neither  party 
should  use  aggression  towards  the  other,  nor  pass  cer- 
tain limits,  which  were  distinctly  marked.  Freed  from 
the  apprehension  of  immediate  hostility,  he  now  hoped 
to  be  enabled,  essentially,  to  aid  the  operations  of  Gen- 
eral Greene.  But  the  moment  that  distance  had  lulled 
their  fears,  the  enmities  of  his  opponents  were  revived, 
they  crossed  the  bounds  prescribed,  and  became  as  be- 
fore both  troublesome  and  dangerous.  Petitions  were 
now  presented  to  General  Marion,  soliciting,  that  he 
would  march  his  brigade  into  the  neighbourhood,  and 
at  the  expiration  of  the  treaty,  reduce  these  disorderly 
men  to  submission.  These  he  immediately  forwarded 
to  Governor  Matthews  and  General  Greene,  who  ap- 
proving the  measure,  furnished  him  with  letters  to  the 
Governor  of  North  Carolina,  who  was  solicited  to  give 
every  possible  aid  to  his  operations.  General  Marion 
who  had  deeply  reflected  on  the  object  in  view,  had 
already  formed  his  plans,  and  three  parlies  were  ready 
to  enter  the  truce  ground,  in  opposite  quarters,  with 
orders  to  strike  with  a  decision,  that  should  at  once 
crush  every  thought  of  future  resistance.  At  his  ap- 
proach these  deluded  people,  who  were  well  acquaint- 
de  with  his  firmness,  and  fully  apprized  of  his  humanity, 
became  panic  struck,  and  though  thrice  his  number, 
flocked  in  crowds  to  his  qamp,  tendering  submission,  and 
demanding  ivritten  protections.  The  consumption  of 
paper  on  the  occasion  was  so  great,  every  individual 
claiming  a  certificate  of  pardon,  that  the  supply  at 
head-quarters  and  that  of  every  individual  in  camp, 


MARION.  25 

was  exhausted,  and  even  the  parts  of  letters  not  writ- 
ten on,  were  put  in  requisition  to  indulge  their  wislies. 
The  period  of  the  truce  beins  nearly  expired,  the  bri- 
gade was  halted  at  Burch's  Mills,  on  the  Pedee.  It 
was  at  that  spot  that  a  Captain  Butler,  who  headed  a 
marauding  party  under  a  British  commission,  surren- 
dered himself  on  the  terms  held  out  to  the  disaffected, 
by  a  recent  proclamation  of  Governor  Matthews.  A 
more  sanguinary  being  did  not  exist.  He  had  cruelly 
oppressed  the  whig  inhabitants  ;  and  but  a  little  before, 
murdered  some  of  the  Americans,  whose  friends  were 
then  in  camp.  Irritated  to  madness,  and  to  a  dis- 
regard of  all  sense  of  duty,  at  the  thought,  that  such  a 
man  was,  by  submission,  to  escape  the  just  reward  ot 
his  crimes,  a  hasty  and  intemperate  message  v\'as  sent 
to  the  general,  purporting,  tiiat  such  a  villain  as  Butler 
should  not  receive  protection.  To  this  insulting  com- 
munication, General  Marion  calmly  replied  : — "  Con- 
fidently believing,  that  the  pardon  offered  by  Governor 
Matthews,  would  be  granted,  the  man  whom  you 
would  destroy,  has  submitted.  Both  law  and  honour 
sanction  my  resolution.  I  will  take  him  to  my  tent, 
and  at  the  hazard  of  my  life,  protect  him."  A  second 
message  now  informed  him,  that  Butler  should  be 
dragged  from  his  tent  and  put  to  death — since  it  was 
an  insult  to  humanity,  that  such  a  wretch  should  be 
defended.  The  honourable  feeling  of  Marion  was 
now  exalted  to  the  highest  pitch,  and  calling  the  gen- 
tlemen of  his  family  together,  he  exclaimed  : — "  Is 
there  a  man  among  you,  who  will  refuse  his  aid,  in 
defending  the  laws  of  his  country  ?  I  know  you  too 
well  to  suppose  it !  Prepare,  then,  to  give  me  your 
assistance  ;  for,  though  I  consider  the  villainy  of 
Butler  unparalleled,  yet,  as  an  officer  acting  under 
orders,  I  am  bound  to  defend  him  ;  and  I  will  do  so, 
though  I  perish."  He  then  collected  a  guard  around 
the  tent,  into  which  he  had  introduced  him,  and  at  an 


26  MARION. 

early  hour  after  night  fall,  had  him  conveyed  to  a  place 
of  security. 

Major  Ganey,  who  commanded  the  British  ad- 
herents within  the  truce  ground,  thought  it  now  high 
time  to  negociate :  and  having  sent  in  propositions  for 
that  purpose  to  General  Marion,  commissioners  were 
appointed  to  form  a  treaty.  Unhappily,  some  allu- 
sions in  conversation,  to  the  escapes  which  one  party 
had  made  in  conflicts  from  the  other,  excited  all  the 
irritation  of  deadly  animosity,  and  they  separated  with 
unabated  resentments.  Marion  was  grievously  mor- 
tified by  the  failure  of  his  commissioners  ;  and  feeling 
great  anxiety  to  move  to  the  lower  country,  the  betcer 
to  protect  the  families  and  property  of  those  who  had 
joined  him,  now  left  at  the  mercy  of  the  British,  de- 
termined to  meet  Ganey  personally.  Appointing, 
therefore,  the  gentlemen  of  his  family  as  commis- 
sioners, to  aid  him  in  negotiation,  Gainey  was  invited, 
with  such  of  his  associates  as  he  chose  to  natne  on  his 
part,  to  cross  the  river,  under  the  sacred  pledge  of 
protection,  and  a  treaty  was  speedily  jjcrfected,  that 
put  a  final  termination  to  all  opposition  in  the  interior. 
The  basis  of  this  treaty  was,  that  all  who  wished  to 
join  the  British  standard,  were  to  receive  safe  conduct 
for  person  and  property,  till  arrived  within  their  lines. 
That  all  who  wished  to  be  reconciled  to  their  country, 
were  to  obtain  pardon  for  past  offences,  and  be  re- 
ceived as  citizens  ;  and  that  persons  found  within  the 
limits  of  the  truce  ground,  after  an  appointed  day, 
without  having  submitted  themselves,  were  to  be  re- 
garded as  enemies.  Ganey  removed  with  those  who 
preferred  adhesion  to  the  British  ;  but,  before  his 
departure,  said  to  General  Marion — "  Honour  requires 
that  I  should  surrender  my  commission  to  Colonel 
Balfour,  from  whom  I  received  it.  But,  having  done 
so,  I  shall  immediately  return  to  the  country,  and  seek 
your  protection."     He  strictly  performed  his  promise  ; 


MARION  27 

and  it  is  remarkable,  that  at  Watboo,  placed  in  the 
ranks  with  about  forty  of  his  men,  at  the  very  point 
on  which  the  British  cavalry  made  their  principal 
attack,  greatly  contributed  to  their  discomfiture  and 
repulse.  Several  of  General  Marion's  principal  offi- 
cers were  impressed  with  the  opinion,  that  he  had 
committed  his  dignity,  in  personally  treating  with 
Ganey,  whom  they  regarded  in  no  better  light,  than 
a  leader  of  banditti ;  but  he  silenced  their  censures, 
by  asserting — "  That  the  only  dignity  he  aspired  to, 
was  that  of  essentially  serving  his  country." 

About  this  period  the  celebrated  marauder.  Fanning, 
of  North   Carolina,  arrived  in  the  truce  ground.     He 
was  a   most   determined  enemy;    resolute  and  san- 
guinary, and  possessed  such  distinguished  talents  for 
jiartisan  warfare,  that  much  apprehension  was  enter- 
tained, that  he  would  again  stir  up  the  spirit  of  revolt, 
and  induce  Ganey  to  break  his  engagements.     But  an 
end  was  speedily  put  to  suspense.    A  flag  arriving  from 
him,  with  a  request,  that  General  Marion  would  grant 
safe  conduct  to  his  wife,  and  some  property,  to  the  Bri- 
tish garrison,  in  Charleston.     Compliance  was  the  im- 
mediate consequence.     Most  of  the  officers  believed  it 
bad  policy,  but  the  general  justified   his  conduct,  by 
saying :  "  Let  but  his  wife  and  property  reach  the  Bri- 
tish  lines,  and  Fanning  will  not  fail  to  follow  them; 
but,  force  them  to  remain — deny  the  flag  required,  and 
we  fix  a  serpent  in  our  bosoms."     Fanning  finding  no 
hope  of  exciting  insurrection,  fled  the  country,  and  was 
nearly  as  soon  as  his  wife  within  the   garrison.     The 
general,   moving   into  the  truce  ground,  now  busied 
himself  in  securing  the  persons  of  every  individual, 
who,  declining  to  retire  within  the  British  lines,  still 
fused  submission  to  American  authority.     In  the  exe- 
cution of  this  duty,  a  hint  was  given  to  the  general, 
that  irregularities  had  been  indulged  that  were  highly 
Uisgraceful  to  the  military  character,  which  occasioned 


S8  MARION. 

him,  with  his  usual  frankness,  to  declare,  at  table,  "  I 
have  heard  insinuations  of  conduct  exercised,  that 
would  disgrace  my  command  ;  no  regular  accusation 
has  been  made;  but  I  wish  it  to  be  clearly  understood, 
that  let  officer  or  soldier  be  proved  guilty  of  crime,  and 
he  shall  hang  on  the  next  tree."  His  inflexible  firm- 
ness was  known,  and  not  a  whisper  was  ever  breathed 
of  further  irregularities.  The  brigade  was  soon  after 
marched  to  Watboo;  and  after  having  beaten  a  party 
of  horse,  sent  from  Charleston  for  the  purpose  of  sur- 
prising it,  remained  there  till  the  evacuation  of  Charles- 
ton. .  While  the  British  were  preparing  for  embarka- 
tion, a  party  were  sent  to  Lamprier's  Point  to  procure 
water.  A  hint  was  given  to  Marion  that  this  would 
afford  a  fair  opportunity  of  inflicting  a  parting  blow:  to 
wMiich  he  re[)lied — "  My  brigade  is  composed  of  citi- 
zens, enough  of  whose  blood  has  already  been  shed  ; 
if  ordered  to  attack  the  enemy,  I  shall  obey ;  but  not 
another  drop  shall,  with  my  consent,  be  lost,  thougii  it 
should  procure  me  the  greatest  honours  that,  as  a  sol- 
dier, I  could  aspire  to.  Certain,  as  I  am,  that  the 
enemy  are  at  the  i)oint  of  departure,  so  far  from  oifer- 
ing  to  molest,  I  would  rather  send  a  party  to  protect 
them."  Had  such  been  the  humane  policy  of  Ko- 
sciusko, many  valuable  lives  would  have  been  spared, 
and  Wilmott  and  Moore  might,  at  this  day,  have  lived 
to  add  new  honours  to  the  annals  of  their  country. 
Next  to  Henry  Lee,  perhaps  altogether  his  equal,  no 
man  could  be  more  expert  than  General  Marion,  in 
obtaining  information  of  every  movement  of  the  enemy, 
and  anticipating  the  events  that  might  be  expected 
from  their  activity  and  enterprise.  He  was,  when 
necessary,  secret  as  the  grave  ;  appeared,  generally, 
thoughtful,  and  was  approached  by  his  officers  with 
reverential  awe;  but  when  out  of  reach  of  the  enemy, 
and  at  liberty  to  give  indulgence  to  the  natural  cheer- 
fulness of  his  disposition,  he  was  familiar  with  his  intr- 


MARION.  2^ 

mates,  and  the  gentlemen  of  his  family,  even  to  play- 
fulness. In  private  life  he  was  distinguished  by  the 
strictest  integrity  in  all  his  dealings.  He  was  the  exe- 
cutor of  several  estates,  and  guardian  of  many  children. 
Every  duty  was  performed  to  perfection.  No  man  lived 
more  beloved — none  ever  died  more  universally  and 
justly  lamented.  I  shall  close  my  eulogy  with  one 
anecdote,  which  I  consider  highly  characteristic  of  his 
unerring  virtue.  A  friend,  to  whom  he  was  attach- 
ed by  the  warmest  affection,  who  had  shared  all  his 
dangers,  had  transgressed  the  law  by  refusing  to  sub- 
mit to  the  regular  process  of  justice,  hoing,  by  the 
interposition  of  friends,  and  his  high  reputation,  to 
escape  censure.  "  Deliver  yourself,"  said  Marion, 
"  into  the  hands  of  the  sheriff ;  submit  to  be  conduct- 
ed to  gaol,  and  my  hand  and  heart  are  yours.  Refuse 
to  do  so,  and  trust,  by  the  influence  of  friendship,  to 
elude  justice,  and  the  line  of  separation  is  for  ever 
drawn  betwixt  us." 


Among  the  companions  of  Moultrie,  I  will  mention 
two  other  individuals,  who  afterwards  were  associated 
in  arms  with  Marion,  and,  therefore,  properly  noticed 
in  this  place. 

COLONEL  PETER  HORRY. 

This  officer  was  a  descendant  of  one  of  the  many 
protestant  families  who  removed  to  Carolina  from 
France,  after  the  revocation  of  the  edict  of  Nantz. 
He  early  took  up  arms  in  defence  of  his  country  ; 
and  through  all  the  trials  of  peril  and  privation,  ex- 
perienced by  Marion's  brigade,  gave  ample   proof  of 


30  HORRY. 

his  strict  integrity  and  undaunted  courage.  The  fame 
which  he  acquired,  as  one  of  the  band  of  heroes  who 
defended  the  post  at  Sullivan's  Island,  was  never  tar- 
nished. For,  although  in  a  moment  of  despondency 
he  once  said  to  his  general — "  I  fear  our  happy  days 
are  all  gone  by  ;"  it  was  not  the  consequences  that 
might  accrue  to  himself,  but  the  miseries  apprehended 
for  his  country,  that  caused  the  exclamation  ;  for  never 
were  his  principles  shaken;  never,  even  for  a  moment, 
did  the  thoui:;!)t  of  submission  enter  his  bosom.  No 
man  more  eagerly  sought  the  foe  ;  none  braved  danger 
with  greater  intrepidity,  or  more  strenuously  endea- 
voured to  sustain  the  military  reputation  of  his  country. 
A  ludicrous  story  is  told  of  him,  that,  though  probably 
varied  in  the  narration,  has  its  foundation  in  truth. 
Colonel  Horry  was  once  ordered  to  wait  the  approach 
of  a  British  detachment  in  ambuscade  ;  a  service  he 
performed  with  such  skill,  that  he  had  them  com- 
pletely within  his  power  ;  when,  from  a  dreadful 
impediment  in  his  speech,  by  which  he  was  afilicted, 
he  could  not  articulate  the  word — '"'' Jire.'^''  In  vain  he 
made  the  attempt — it  was,^,  fi,  fi,  Ji — but  he  could 
get  no  further.  At  length,  irritated  almost  to  madness, 
he  exclaimed — "  Shouts  damn  you — shoot — you  know 
very  well  what  I  would  say — shoot,  shoot,  and  be 
damn'd  to  you  !  He  was  present  in  every  engagement 
©f  consequence,  and  on  all  occasions  increased  his 
reputation.  At  Quinby,  Colonel  Baxter,  a  gallant 
soldier,  possessed  of  great  coolness,  and  still  greater 
simplicity  of  character,  calling  out,  "  I  am  wounded, 
colonel  !"  Horry  replied — "  Think  no  more  of  it, 
Baxter,  but  stand  to  your  post."  "  But,  I  can't  stand, 
colonel — I  am  wounded  a  second  time !"  "  Then 
lie  down,  Baxter,  but  quit  not  your  post."  "  Colonel," 
(cried  the  wounded  man)  "  they  have  shot  me  again, 
and  if  I   remain  any  longer  here,  I  shall  be  shot  to 


HORRY.  31 

pieces."  "  Be  it  so,  Baxter,  but  stir  not."  He 
obeyed  the  order,  and  actually  received  a  fourth  'vound 
before  the  engagement  ended. 


COLONEL  MAYHAM. 

If  Colonel  Mayharn  had  never  rendered  any  other 
service  in  the  field,  than  the  judicious  invention  of  the 
tovi'er,  to  facilitate  the  reduction  of  the  posts  held  by 
the  British,  and  afterwards  distinguished  by  his  name, 
he  would,  as  a  soldier,  have  been  entitled  to  dis- 
tinction. But,  the  fact  is,  that  in  no  situation  did  he 
ever  fail  to  increase  his  military  fame.  Expert  in 
stratagem,  he  was  equally  alert  in  enterprise  ;  and  in 
hardy  daring,  second  to  no  officer  in  the  service.  By 
the  construction  of  bis  tower,  the  British  post  at 
Wright's  Bluff,  which,  from  its  elevated  situation,  and 
the  want  of  cannon,  had  been  deemed  impregnable, 
was  so  completely  overtopped,  and  the  American 
riflemen  thereby  enabled  to  fire  with  such  deadly 
effect,  that  the  besieged  dared  not  show  themselves, 
and  were  compelled  to  capitulate  and  make  an  imme- 
diate surrender.  Lee  saw  the  advantage  accruing 
from  it,  and  by  a  similar  construction,  obtained  a 
superiority  over  Browne  at  Augusta,  whose  activity  and 
resolution,  had  baffled  every  previous  attemi)t  to  injure 
him.  Distinguished  throughout  the  whole  of  Marion's 
campaigns,  by  his  zeal  and  activity,  it  was  the  good 
fortune  of  Colonel  Mayham,  to  close  his  military 
career  by  a  partisan  stroke,  greatly  to  the  discomfiture 
of  the  enemy,  attacking,  with  invincible  impetuosity, 
a  detachment  at  Monk's  Corner,  within  view  of  their 
main  army,  and  carrying  off  eighty  prisoners,  without 
the  smallest  loss. 


PARTISAN  COMMANDERS  OF  MILIIIA. 


GENERAL  SUMTER. 

In  relating  the  military  acquirements  of  Sumter,  I 
should  feelingly  lament  the  disasters  attending  his  early 
career,  had  he  not,  like  Antseus,  gathered  strength 
from  misfortune,  and  arose  after  every  fall,  with  reno- 
vated powers  of  action.  In  the  school  of  adversity,  he 
learnt  circumspection  and  was  more  than  once,  com- 
pelled to  fight  under  the  greatest  disadvantages.  He 
became,  ultimately,  so  guarded  in  his  attention  to  the 
security  of  his  camp,  and  so  happy  in  the  choice  of  his 
positions,  that  every  attempt  to  injure  him,  on  the  part 
of  the  enemy,  proved  abortive,  whilst  the  enterprizes 
which  he  conducted,  were,  for  the  most  part,  produc- 
tive of  the  most  brilliant  success.  No  man  was  more 
indefatigable  in  his  efforts  to  obtain  victory  ;  none 
more  ready,  by  the  generous  exposure  of  his  person, 
and  the  animating  example  of  intre|)idity,  to  deserve 
it.  His  attacks  were  impetuous,  and  generally  irre- 
sistible. He  was  far  less  inclined  to  plan,  than  to 
execute ;  and  on  many  occasions,  by  an  approach  to 
rashness,  accomplished  what  prudence  vvouhl  have 
forbidden  him  to  attempt.  It  was  his  supreme  good 
fortune,  to  give  the  first  check  to  the  British  successes 
in  South  Carolina,  after  the  fall  of  Charleston,  by 
completely  routing  on  the  12th  of  July,  1780,  at  Wil- 


SUMTER.  33 

liams'  plantation,  a  marauding  detachment  of  their 
arjuy,  cojiuuanded  by  Captain  Hack,  a  miscreant, 
who,  by  his  cruelty  and  profanity,  appeared,  equally, 
the  enemy  of  God  and  man.  During  his  predatory 
excursions,  he  had  perpetrated  every  species  of  bar- 
barity, and  excited  tiie  resentments  of  the  inhabitants, 
still  more  by  his  words,  than  by  his  actions.  With 
him,  the  exclamation  was  common — "  God  Almighty 
has  turned  rebel ;  but,  had  the  Americans  twenty 
Gods,  instead  of  one  on  their  s'rde,  they  should  all 
he  conquered." 

General  Sumter's  attacks  upon  the  posts  of  Rocky 
Mount  and  Hanging  Rock,  where,  in  the  first  instance, 
he  was   completely  successful,  did    him   great  credit ; 
and  could  he  have  restrained  the  insubordination  cha- 
racteristic   ol'  irregular   troops,    and    destroyed    their 
avidity  for  plunder  and  liquor,  in  both  instances,   his 
victory  must  have  been  complete.      He,   shortly  after, 
captured  a  convoy  of  stores  passing  from  Ninety-Six 
to    Camden ;    but,    most    unfortunately,    encam{)ing 
within  striking  distance  of  the  enemy,  (now  at  liberty, 
by  the   complete  defeat   of  Gates,  to  send  forth  large 
detachments,)  he  was  attacked  by  Tarleton,  when  un- 
prepared  for  resistance,   and   routed,   with  the  loss  of 
many  men,  and  all  the   prisoners  and  valuable   stores 
that  had  recently  i'allen  into  his  hands.     He  was  next 
attacked  near  Broad  Kiver  by  Wemyss,  who,   calcu- 
lating on  his  former  inattention  to  the  security  of  his 
cami),   hoped  lo  surprise  him.     In   his  expectations, 
however,    he  was   severely  disappointed  ;   his  troops 
were  repulsed,  and   himself  wounded  and  taken.     It 
has  often  been   said,  and  universally  believed,   that  in 
a  pocket-book  found  on  him,  was  not  only  an  accurate 
list  of  the  houses  he  had  burnt,  but  of  those  also  that 
he  intended  to  destroij.     Lord  Cornwallis,  writing  im- 
mediately after  this  to  Colonel  Tarleton,  to  give  energy 
to  pursuit,  says — "  I  shall  be  glad  to  hear  that  Sumter 

5 


34  SUMTEIl. 

is  in  no  condition  to  give  us  further  trouble — he  cer- 
tainly has  been  our  greatest  plague  in  this  country." 

From  a  man  of  Lord  Cornvvallis'  enterprise,  such 
praise  was  the  highest  encomium.  Tarleton  now 
rapidly  advanced,  anxious  to  strike  a  blow  that  would 
annihilate  him,  before  he  could  cross  the  Tiger  River; 
and,  stimulated  by  the  impetuosity  of  his  temper, 
attacked  his  strong  position  on  Blackstock-Hill,  with 
such  imprudence,  that,  after  severe  loss,  both  of  offi- 
cers and  men,  he  was  compelled  to  quit  the  field, 
leaving  his  wounded  to  the  mercy  of  his  conqueror. 
To  the  credit  of  Sumter,  his  attention  and  humanity 
to  them,  has  always  been  acknowledged.  To  the 
misfortune  of  Carolina,  a  severe  wound  received  in 
the  action,  put  a  stop,  for  a  considerable  time,  to  his 
brilliant  career  ;  but,  he  was  no  sooner  able  to  take 
the  field,  than  he  again  appeared  as  an  active  partisan, 
breaking  up  the  British  posts  in  the  lower  country. 
On  one  occasion.  Lieutenant  Colonel  Hampton,  com- 
manding under  him,  dispersed  a  large  body  of  tories 
near  Dorchester.  Placed  at  the  head  of  the  Fight 
troops,  both  regulars  and  militia,  Sumter  next  com- 
pelled Lieutenant  Colonel  Coats  to  destroy  his  stores 
at  Monk's  Corner,  and  abandon  the  position,  and 
would  have  made  the  entire  19th  regiment,  com- 
manded by  him,  prisoners,  had  he  not,  by  the  rai)idity 
of  his  flight,  passed  the  bridge  at  Quinby,  and  by 
throwing  off  the  i)lank,  prevented  pursuit,  till  he  had 
established  himself  in  a  strong  position,  from  vvliich, 
the  want  of  artillery  rendered  it  impossible  to  dislodge 
him.  Important  services  were  again  performed  by 
him  at  Eutaw.  After  which,  the  enemy  retiring 
within  their  lines,  seldom  ventured  beyond  the  gates 
of  Charleston* 


PICKENS.  35 

GENERAL  PICKENS. 

A   truer    patriot,   nor  more    intrepid   soldier   than 
General  Pickens,   never  trod  the  soil  of  liberty;   and 
there  are  few  characters  of  our  Revolution  to  whom 
Carolina  is  more  highly  indebted.     At  the  commence- 
ment  of  the   war,    sreat  diversity  of  opinion  existed 
among   the   inhabitants  of  the  interior  country,   not 
only  with  regard  to  the  practicability,  but  propriety 
also,  of  resisting  the  power  of  Britain.     Attachment 
to  former  prejudices,  and  a  belief  of  the  perfection  of 
the  ancient  system,  were  strong  ;  and  the  spirit  of  op- 
position, encouraged  by  the  new  government,  regarded 
if  not  unjustifiable,  at  least,   rash  and  inconsiderate, 
and  leading  to  consequences  the  most  disastrous  to  the 
peace  and  happiness  of  the   community.     The  exer- 
tions of  Colonel  Pickens,  to  counteract  those  fallacious 
principles,  and  to  induce  the  inhabitants  of  his  district 
to  adopt  opinions  similar  to  those  which  animated  the 
bosoms  of  every  true  friend  to  his  country,  were  inde- 
fatigable,    lie  was  constantly  on  the  alert ;  vigilance, 
indeed,  became  indispensible  ;  for,  although  the  tories 
would  oftentimes  show  a  disposition  to  temporize,  yet 
it   was  evident    from   their   murmurings,  and   secret 
caballing,  that  they  only  waited  a  favourable  oppor- 
tunity to  declare  their  sentiments,  and  to   engage  in 
open  and  decided  hostility.     No  sooner,  therefore,  did 
the  British  appear  in   force  in  the  south,   than  their 
smothered  resentments  burst  into  flame.    Several  hun- 
dreds of  them  embodied,  and  conunitting  every  spe- 
cies of  depredation  on  their  route,  marched  forvvanl  to 
join  the   royal  army  in  Georgia.     Colonel   Pickens, 
a[)prized  of  their  movements,  and   irritated   by  their 
rapacity,   pursued   them    with  rapid  steps,  and  over- 
taking them  at  Kettle  Creek,  attacked  them  so  vigo- 
rously, that  in  less  than  an  hour,  forty  of  their  number, 


36  PICKENS. 

and  among  them  their  leader,  Boyd,  were  killed,  and 
thn  rest  so  eomj)[rtel3'  dispersed,  as  to  leave  no  appre- 
hension of  any  further  trouble. 

When  Charleston  fell,  and  the  victorious  Britons 
spreadin;i  themselves  over  the  country,  advanced  into  the 
intrrior,  the  revived  resentments  of  the  royalists,  com- 
pelled Colonel  Pickens,  and  the  steady  adherents  of  the 
cause  of  freedom,  to  abandon  tlieir  habitations  and  coun- 
try, and  seek  for  refuse  in  North  Carolina.  So  soon, 
however,  as  General  Greene  had  taken  cotnmand  of  the 
army,  and  ordered  General  Morgan  to  enter  the  western 
division  of  the  state,  to  check  the  aggressions  of  the 
enemy,  and  to  revive  the  drooping  spirits  of  the  whig  in- 
habitants, Colonel  Pickens  was  found  the  most  active 
among  his  associates,  seconding  his  enterprizes,  and  by 
gentleness  and  conciliation,  attaching  new  adherents  to 
the  cause.  Of  his  intrepid  conduct  at  the  battle  of 
the  Cowpens,  it  is  scarcely  necessary  to  speak.  It  is  a 
well  known  fact,  that  he  not  only  prevailed  upon  his 
riflemen  to  retain  their  fire  till  it  could  be  given  with 
deadly  effect,  but  when  broken  and  compelled  to  re- 
treat, that  he  rallied  them  ;  and  what  had  never  bc^fore 
been  effected  ivith  militia,  brought  them  a  second  time 
to  meet  their  enemy,  and  by  continued  exertion,  to 
accomplish  their  final  surrender. 

Ordered  by  General  Greene,  after  his  retreat  into 
Virginia,  to  recross  the  Dan,  and,  in  conjunction  with 
Lee,  to  check  the  spirit  of  revolt  which  had  manifested 
itself  in  many  parts  of  North  Carolina,  he  aided,  effec- 
tually, the  infliction  of  that  salutary  punishment  which 
rendered  abortive  every  future  effort  of  Lord  Corn- 
wallis  to  bring  recruits  to  he  royal  standard. 

When  the  British  were  subsequently  compelled  to 
retreat  to  Wilmington,  and  General  Greene  resolved  to 
return  to  South  Carolina,  Pickens,  now  a  brigadier, 
was  directed  to  i)recede  him,  and  to  collect  the  militia 
of  his  brigade,  and  particularly  to  prevent  supplies 


PICKENS.  37 

from  heing  thrown  into  tlie  garrisons  of  Ninety-Six,  and 
Augusta.  This  service  was  effeotnally  performed,  and 
being  joined  by  Lee,  the  combined  force  sat  down 
before  Augusta.  Greater  skill  in  defence,  nor  more 
intrepid  resistance,  was  never  shown  than  by  Colonel 
Browne,  which  cannot  but  enhance  the  glory  of  the  com- 
manders who  compelled  him  to  surrender.  At  the  bat- 
tle of  Eutaw,  where  he  was  wounded,  he  acquired 
additional  glory;  and  finally,  completed  his  military 
achievements,  by  conducting  an  expedition,  in  1782, 
against  the  Cherokee  nation  with  such  decided  effect, 
that,  with  the  utmost  humility,  they  solicited  peace, 
and  promised  never  again  to  rise  in  opposition  to  ovjr 
government. 


GENERAL  DAVIE. 

At  the  commencement  of  the  Revolutionary  War 
General  Davie  was  a  student  at  Princeton  College, 
and  feeling  a  strong  desire  to  encounter  the  dangers  of 
the  field,  marched  as  sergeant  of  a  company  of  his 
associates,  who  had  embodied  themselves  contrary  to 
the  wishes  of  their  tutors,  to  join  a  detachment  of  the 
army  stationed  at  Elizabethtown.  How  long  these 
patriotic  enthusiasts  remained  together  is  uncertain ; 
but  becoming  disgusted  more  with  the  fatigues  than 
the  dangers  of  service,  they  justified  the  prognostic  of 
Dr.  Witherspoon,  and  gradually  returned  to  their 
studies.  When  they  first  left  the  college  the  faculty 
spoke  of  expulsion,  and  other  punishments,  as  the 
merited  reward  of  disobedience.  Dr.  Witherspoon 
simply  said, — "Let  them  alone;  opi)osition  to  their 
purposes  will  only  increase  their  desire  to  adhere  to 


38  DAVIE. 

them ;  exposure  to  the  fatigues  of  service  will  effect  all 
that  you  desire  ;  it  will  not  he  long  he  fore  we  have 
them  all  hack  again."  Young  Davie,  and  one  other 
student  named  Brown,  remained  with  the  army.  His 
taste  for  a  military  life  was  now  confirmed  ;  and  we 
find  him  at  the  battle  of  Stono,  as  Brigade  Major  of 
cavalry,  covering  the  retreat  of  Lincoln's  army,  and 
immediately  afterwards  an  inmate  of  the  hospital,  se- 
verely wounded.  He  has  often  mentioned  to  a  friend, 
an  occurrence  that  plainly  shows,  how  deplorable  the 
situation  of  the  continental  army  niust  have  been  with 
respect  to  the  essential  comforts  which  were  never  want- 
ing to  the  British.  Thrown  into  a  stupor  by  the  loss 
of  blood,  and  the  agony  of  his  wound,  the  poor  young 
soldier,  on  the  recovery  of  his  senses,  found  that  his 
^hirt  had  been  stripped  from  his  back  to  make  ban- 
dages for  the  wounded  who  surrounded  him,  and 
tiaving  no  change  to  replace  it,  acknowledged  that,  for 
a  time,  he  felt  all  the  pains  of  the  most  perfect  despon- 
dency. At  the  period  of  Gates'  defeat  his  zeal  and 
activity  had  advanced  him  to  the  command  of  a 
legionary  corps  of  militia.  He  was  on  detachment  at 
the  moment  of  defeat,  but  hastening  forward  as  soon 
:as  he  was  informed  of  it,  he  was  essentially  service- 
able, not  only  in  preventing  pursuit,  but  in  recai)turing 
several  wagons,  one  of  which,  most  fortunately,  con- 
stained  the  hospital  medicine  chest.  Convinced  that 
the  enemy  would  anxiously  seek  and  strike  at  Sumter, 
he,  with  laudable  zeal,  immediately  despatched  a  con- 
fidential soldier  with  intelligence  of  the  disaster,  and 
then  reluctantly  retired.  He  had  previously,  under  the 
command  of  Sumter,  fought  both  at  Hanging  Rock 
and  Rocky  Mount.  At  the  first  he  cut  off  three  com- 
panies of  Bryan's  regiment,  took  sixty  horses  and  one 
hundred  rifles  and  muskets;  at  the  last,  by  a  well 
directed  charge,  made  great  havoc  among  the  loyalists, 
and  had  not  some  liquor,  found  in  the  enemy's  camp, 


DAVIE.  ^gi 

been  too  attractive,  would  have  enjoyed  a  complete  vic- 
tory ;    but  intoxication   destroyed    subordination,   and 
every*  advantage  was  lost.    After  the  battle  of  Camden 
his  force,  consisting  of  about  two  hundred  men,  was 
actively  employed  in  repelling  predatory  excursions,  in 
harassing  the  enemy,  and   cutting  off  their  supplies. 
Provisions  were  scarce  in  the  British  camp,  and  Lord 
Cornwallis  was  compelled  to  send  out  large  detach- 
ments  to  procure  them.     One  of  these,  stationed  at 
Wahab's  plantat^ion,  was  struck  at  by  Davie,  and  with 
complete  success.     Sixty  of  the  enemy  were  left  on  the 
ground ;  ninety-six  horses,  with  their  equipments,  and 
one  hundred  and  twenty  stand  of  arms,   were  taken, 
with  the  loss  of  but  one  man.     Being  now  closely 
pressed,  he  retired  to  Charlotte,  and  joined  by  Major 
Grahame,  made  a  stand  that  entitles  him  to  the  most 
exalted  i)raise.     Twice  he  repulsed  the  British  legion, 
with  considerable   slaughter,   and  it  was  not  till  his 
flank  was  gained,  and  a  third  charge  made  under  the 
influence  of  an  animating  address  by  Lord  Cornwallis 
himself,  that  he  relinquished  his  post,  retiring  without 
loss  to  Salisbury.     General  Davie  was  not  only  distin- 
guished as  an  intelligent,  but  as  an  intrepid  soldier. 
His  delight  was  to  lead  a  charge  ;  and  possessing  great 
bodily  strength,  united  with  uncommon  activity,  is  said 
to  have  overcome  more  men,  in  personal  conflict,  than 
any  individual  in  the  service.     His  knowledge  of  the 
country,  and  of  its  resources,  induced  General  Greene, 
when  pressed  by  the  greatest  difflculties,  to  intrust  him 
with  the  charge  of  the  quarter  master  general's  depart- 
ment. He  afterwards  employed  him  as  a  negotiator  with 
the  legislature  of  North  Carolina  for  supplies  of  men,  the 
more  effectually  to  resist  the  enemy,  whose  strength 
iiad  increased  by  the  arrival  of  three  regiments  from 
Ireland.     In  both  these  capacities  he  acquitted  iiimself 
with  consummate  ability,  and  to  the  entire  satisfaction 
of  his  general. 


40  DAVIE. 

I  do  not  think  that  I  could  find  a  bettter  opportunity, 
than  in  this  phice,  to  point  out  the  advantages  of  disci- 
pline. It  may  be  remembered,  that  at  the  battle  of 
Guilford,  two  North  Carolina  battalions  of  militia,  ad- 
vantageously posted  behind  a  rail  fence,  were  assured 
by  General  Greene,  that  if  they  would  only  preserve 
their  station  lon^  enough  to  give  their  enemy  two  fires, 
they  should  obtain  his  free  permission  to  retire  from 
the  field.  They  readily  promised  obedience,  but  the 
formidable  whiskered  Hessians,  and  athletic  Guards, 
advancing  with  rai)id  motion,  tlieir  courage  forsook 
them,  and  they  retired  without  firing  a  shot.  As  a 
punishment  for  their  scandalous  misconduct,  they  were, 
in  compliance  with  the  requisition  made  by  General 
Greene,  through  the  medium  of  Davie,  placed  under 
continental  officers,  and  sentenced  to  serve  for  eighteen 
months  in  the  ranks.  The  reguhirity  of  discipline  soon 
tauglit  them  self-confidence  ;  they  actually  panted  for 
renown,  and  behaved  with  such  gallantry  at  Eutaw, 
that  of  tiiree  hundred  of  their  ntimber  that  entered  into 
the  action,  one  hundred  and  ninety  remained,  at  its 
conclusion,  either  killed  or  wounded  on  the  field. 

T  had  written  this  short  sketch  of  the  character  and 
achievements  of  General  Davie,  when  a  packet  was 
delivered  to  me  from  a  friend  in  the  interior  country, 
above  all  other  men  qualified,  from  strict  intimacy  and 
just  admiration  of  his  talents  and  virtues,  to  furnish  me 
with  the  information  respecting  him,  that  I  required. 
To  my  readers  I  am  confident  I  cannot  offer  too  many 
particulars  relative  to  a  patriot  who  lived  so  much  be- 
loved— who  died  so  universally  lamented.  And  it 
would  be  an  injustice  to  the  friend,  to  whose  commu- 
nication I  feel  myself  in  the  highest  degree  indebted, 
to  make  the  communication  in  any  other  than  his  own 
words. 


PAVIE.  41 

^*  At  the  bar,  Colonel  Davie  soon  rose  to  great  emi- 
nence ;  and  indexed,  in  a  few  years,  became  one  of  its 
principal  leaders  and  ornaments.  He  was  jmssessed 
of  sreat  sagacity,  profound  knowledge,  and  masculine 
eloquence.  His  manners  were  conciliatory,  but  im- 
posing and  even  commanding.  The  late  Alfred  Moore, 
who  was  afterwards  one  of  the  Judges  of  the  Supreme 
Court  of  the  United  States,  and  who  was  a  very  able 
lawyer,  as  well  as  an  excellent  man,  was  the  intimate 
friend  of  Colonel  Davie,  and  his  rival,  in  their  honour- 
able career  at  the  bar.  Their  practice  and  their 
labours  were  immense,  and  both  made  independent 
fortunes. 

"  Colonel  Davie  was  appointed  by  the  Legislature 
of  North  Carolina,  to  represent  that  respectable  state 
in  the  Convention,  called  at  Philadelphia,  in  the  year 
1787,  to  deliberate  on  the  national  embarrassments, 
and  to  form  a  national  government,  in  order  to  correct 
the  evils  of  a  very  loose  confederation,  and  of  a  mise- 
rably week  and  inefficient  government. 

"  Being,  at  that  time,  a  young  man,  he  did  not  take 
a  prominent  part  in  the  discussion  which  resulted  in 
the  lormation  of  thai  constitution,  which  has  been  so 
severely  tested,  and  found  to  be  so  admirably  adapted 
to  the  government  of  our  country.  But,  he  there 
learnt  the  true  foundations  on  which  the  government 
was  laid,  and  the  solid  arguments  in  supi)ort  of  it- 

"His  name  does  not  appear  to  that  great  instru- 
ment; the  illness  of  his  family  having  called  him  home 
before  the  labours  of  the  Convention  were  concluded. 
But,  when  the  constitution  was  submitted  to  the  judg- 
ment of  the  State  Convention  in  North  Carolina,  for 
adoption,  he  stood  forth  its  most  able  champion,  and 
its  most  ardent  supporter. 

"  The  University  of  North  Carolina,  is  mainly  in- 
debted to  his  exertions,  and  to  his  labours,  for  its 
establishment,  and  for  the  assignment  of  permanent 

6 


42  DAVIE. 

landed  property  for  its  support.  Colonel  Davie  was 
extremely  anxious  upon  this  subject,  and  exerted  the 
utmost  powers  of  his  persuasive  and  commanding 
eloquence,  to  ensure  success.  He  was  dee[)]y  sensible 
of  the  extreme  importance  of  extending;,  as  widely  as 
possible,  the  advantages  of  liberal  education,  that 
there  might  be  a  perpetual  succession  of  enlightened 
and  liberal  men,  qualified  to  administer  the  affairs  of 
this  great  and  increasing  people  with  wisdom  and 
dignity.  He  considered  the  [)ublic  liberty  insecure, 
aad  liable  to  be  disturbed  by  perpetual  factions,  unless 
education  be  widely  diffused. 

"  Colonel  Davie  was  now  appointed  a  Major  General 
in  the  militia  of  North  Carolina  ;  and  some  time  after, 
in  the  5'ear  1799,  was  elected  Governor  of  that  State  ; 
the  duties  of  which  station,  he  performed  with  his 
accustomed  fiirmness  and  wisdom.  He  was  not,  how- 
ever, permitted  to  remain  long  in  that  station.  His 
country  had  higher  claims  on  his  talents  and  services. 

"  The  venerable  Mr.  Adams,  then  President  of  the 
United  States,  anxious  to  make  one  more  effort  to  put 
an  end  to  the  differences  which  subsisted  between  this 
country  and  France,  associated  General  Davie  with 
Mr.  Ellsworth  and  Mr.  Murray,  as  his  Ambassadors  in 
a  mission  to  France,  for  that  purpose.  These  gentle- 
men, on  their  arrival  in  France,  found  the  tyrannical 
and  corrupt  government  of  the  Directory,  which  had 
behaved  so  haughtily  to  General  Pinckney  and  his 
colleagues,  overturned  by  Buonaparte;  who,  though 
exercising  more  despotic  powers  than  his  predecessors, 
was,  at  that  time,  desirous  to  conciliate  the  United 
States.  Commissioners  were  appointed  to  discuss 
the  subjects  of  dispute,  and  their  deliberations  ended 
in  a  convention,  which  healed  the  breach,  and  saved 
the  United  States  from  being  dragged  into  the  vortex 
of  European  quarrels. 


DAVIE.  43 

"  General  Davie  always  represented  to  his  friends, 
Joseph  Buonaparte,  the  ex-king  of  Naples  and  of 
Spain,  then  a  minister  in  France,  (now  resident  in  the 
United  States)  as  the  person  who,  of  all  others  con- 
nected with  the  French  government,  behaved  most 
uniformly  with  liberality,  disinterestedness  and  respect 
to  the  American  commissioners.  That  gentleman, 
accordingly,  always  stood  high  in  his  esteem.  Ma- 
dame de  Stael  tendered  civilities  to  the  Commissioners, 
which  it  was  deemed  expedient  to  decline,  that  lady 
being  then  in  disgrace  with  Buonaparte. 

"  It  was  impossible,  for  a  man  of  General  Davie's 
profound  observation,  to  be  in  France,  and  to  witness, 
for  a  considerable  time,  the  workings  of  powerful 
minds  in  that  agitated  country,  then  just  emerging 
from  the  most  ferocious  and  bloody  despotism  of  the 
mob,  and  tending  to  a  more  regular  despotism  of  a 
single  ruler,  less  bloody,  but  not  less  oppressive,  with^- 
out  closely  examining  the  state  of  public  feeling,  and 
acquiring  an  intimate  knowledge  of  many  of  the  prin- 
cipal actors  in  those  eventful  scenes.  Of  the  history, 
character,  and  political  connexions  of  many  of  those 
actors,  he  condensed  the  information  he  had  collected, 
into  short  sketches,  which  were  afterwards  preserved 
and  brought  to  this  country.  He  saw^  and  deplored, 
that  the  French  Revolution  could  not  terminate  in  the 
establishment  of  rational  liberty  and  regulated  autho- 
rity ;  efficient  only  to  all  useful  purposes,  but  powerless 
for  all  mischief.  He  saw,  that  each  succeeding  fac- 
tion which  acquired  the  supreme  power,  exercised  it 
despotically,  and  with  no  other  view,  than  to  establish 
its  own  authority  permanently,  and  without  any  regard 
to  the  rights  of  the  citizen,  the  legitimate  end  of  all 
government. 

"  Upon  this  subject,  his  conversation  was  always 
deeply  interesting  ;   and  he  endeavoured   to  impress 


44  DAVIE. 

upon  all  Americans,  but  chiefly  upon  young  men  of 
ardent  minds,  and  promising  talents,  the  vast  impor- 
tance of  moderation  and  toleration  in  republican  gov- 
ernments ;  without  which,  they  can  scarcely  hope  to 
escape  the  snares  of  ambitious  demagogues,  and  the 
ruin  of  violent  dissentions. 

"  General  Davie  contemplated  thecharacter  of  Bou- 
naparte  with  great  attention.  He  saw  him  often,  and 
conversed  with  him  freely.  He  considered  him  a  man 
of  first  rate  talents  as  a  warrior,  and  of  great  reach  as 
a  statesman.  But  he  regarded  him  also,  as  a  man  of 
Unbounded  ambition,  restrained  by  no  principles  human 
or  divine.  On  one  occasion,  aftt^r  an  interesting  con- 
versation, Bounaparte  concluded  by  saying,  that  he 
considered  power  as  the  only  foundation  of  right; 
"  Enfiu  Monsieur  la  force  est  droit.^''  General  Davie's 
opinion  of  him  was  afterwards  verified  by  his  assump- 
tion of  imperial  and  despotic  power. 

"  Soon  after  his  return  to  America  General  Davie  lost 
his  wife,  a  lady  of  lofty  mind  and  exemplary  virtues, 
to  whom  he  was  greatly  attached  :  and  not  long  after 
lie  took  the  resolution  to  retire  from  public  life,  and  to 
become  a  farmer  on  his  own  fine  estate  at  Tivoli, 
beautifully  situated  on  the  Catawba  river,  in  Chester 
District,  South  Carolina.  As  a  farmer  he  was  active 
and  intelligent,  and  endeavoured  to  improve  the  system 
of  agriculture  by  the  use  of  manures,  rotation  of  crops, 
and  rest  to  the  land.  He  deplored  the  slovenly  and 
wasteful  system  of  farming  in  use  throughout  the 
Southern  States,  which  exhausts  the  soil  without  re- 
turning any  thing  to  it.  On  the  formation  of  an  Agri- 
cultural Society  at  Columbia,  he  was  appointed  the 
President,  and  delivered  a  discourse,  which  for  purity 
of  style,  sound  observation,  and  clear  exposition  of  the 
proper  course  of  agriculture  for  this  country,  has  never 


DAVIE.  45 

been  excelled.     It  was  admired  equally  by  the  scholar 
and  the  farmer.* 

"  Some  years  after  General  Davie's  retreat  to  hh 
farm,  the  belligerent  governments  of  France  and  Eng- 
land, which  had  each  endeavoured  to  draw  our  nation 
into  their  quarrel  as  a  party,  multiplied  their  aggres- 
sions on  the  commerce  of  the  United  States  to  such  an 
extent,  as  furnished  just  cause  of  war  against  both ;  and 
it  was  even  seriously  proposed  in  Congress  to  declare 
war  against  botli.     But  as  that  would  have  been  an 
Unwise  exposure  of  the  commerce  of  the  country  to  the 
rapacity  of  both  nations,  it  was  abandoned;  not,  how- 
ever, without  strong  declarations  that  the  conduct  of 
France  and  England  gave  us  the  right  to  choose  our 
enf^my.     That  choice  was  made,  and  it  fell  upon  Great 
Britain,  equally  unjust   with  France  in  her  conduct  to 
our  commerce,  and  coming  more  in  collision  with  the 
personal  feelings  of  American  citizens,  by  her  practice 
of  impressing  them   into   her  naval  service.     In  the 
fortnation  of  the  army  necessary  for  the  defence  of  the 
country,  on   this  emergency,  the  government,  putting 
aside  party  distinctions,  selected  General  Davie  as  one 
of  the  ofiicers  most  fit  to  be  entrusted  with  a  high  com- 
mand.    This  was  flattering  to  his  military  pride,  and 
he  would  have  been  delighted  to  have  rendered  service 
to  his  country,  in  this  his  favourite  profession.     For 
though  not  entirely  satisfied  with  all  the  measures  of 
the  administration,   he  fek  that,  as  a  citizen,  he  was 
bound    to   defend    the   country    whenever  it   was   in 
danger,   how'ever    brought    on   it.      But  his  increas- 
ing infirmities  admonished  him  not  to  assume  duties 
beyond  his  strength,  which  might  prejudice   the  ser- 
vice, instead  of  promoting  it.    The  wounds  received 
in  the  Revolutionary  War,  and  the  rheumatism  which, 

*  The  address  is  printed  in  the  1st  volume  of  the  American  Farmer,  for  the 
year  1.819,  pages  217—225. 


46  DAVIE. 

from  long  exposure  during  his  service,  became  fixed  on 
his  constitution,  rendered  him  incapable  of  those  active 
exertions  which  his  high  sense  of  duty  would  have 
exacted  from  him  as  a  commander.  He,  therefore, 
declined  the  honour  offered  him  after  a  good  deal  of 
hesitation.  But  it  is  believed  that  he  had  several  com- 
munications with  the  government  upon  subjects  con- 
nected with  the  organization  of  the  army,  as  to  which 
his  opinion  was  consulted;  and  the  results  of  his  exi)e- 
rience  and  military  knowledge  were  freely  commu- 
nicated. 

"  General  Davie  continued  to  reside  at  his  beautiful 
seat,  on  the  banks  of  the  Catawba,  to  which  travellers 
and  visitors  wese  constantly  attracted  by  his  open  hos- 
pitality, his  dignified  manners,  and  elevated  character. 
Occasionally  he  made  excursions  to  the  Warm  Springs, 
in  Buncombe  County,  North  Carolina,  for  relief  from 
the  harassing  rheumatism,  which  afflicted  and  wasted 
him.  On  those  visits  he  was  always  greatly  admired 
by  the  intelligent  strangers  who  visited  that  place  of 
resort  from  all  the  Southern  and  South-western  States. 
The  affability  of  his  deportment  gave  easy  access  to 
all.  But  no  person  approached  him,  however  distin- 
guished by  his  talents  or  character,  wiio  did  not  spee- 
dily feel  that  he  was  in  the  presence  of  a  very  superior 
man.  His  great  and  varied  information,  combined 
with  his  profound  knowledge  of  men  and  things,  made 
him  the  most  interesting  of  companions.  The  ignorant 
and  the  learned,  the  weak  and  the  wise,  were  all  in- 
structed and  delighted  with  his  conversation,  which 
had  an  irresistible  charm  for  all.  Although  no  man 
spoke  more  plainly  his  opinions  and  sentiments  on  pro- 
per occasions,  he  had  the  art  of  never  giving  offence. 
For,  like  the  immortal  Washington,  "  he  was  always 
covered  with  the  mantle  of  discretion;"  a  happy  ex- 
pression used  by  the  late  Mr.  Ralph  Izard,  formerly  a 
Senator  in  Congress  from  this  state,  and  who  served 


DAVIE.  47 

six  years  during  President  Washington's  administra- 
tion, knew  him  perfectly,  and  venerated  him  next  to 
the  Deity. 

"  At  home,  and  in  his  own  neighbourhood,  General 
Davie  was  revered  with  the  highest  filial  piety.  He 
was  the  friend  of  the  distressed,  the  safe  counsellor  of 
the  embarrassed,  and  the  peace  maker  of  all.  His 
own  character,  free  from  every  spot  or  stain,  gave  a 
power  to  his  interpositions,  which  was  irresistible. 

"  General  Davie  had  a  deep,  and  even  an  awful 
sense  of  God  and  his  Providence  ;  and  was  attached  to 
the  principles  and  doctrines  of  Christianity.  But,  he 
had  not  attached  himself,  as  an  avowed  member  to  any 
particular  sect.  He  thought  they  generally  dogmu- 
lized  too  much,  and  shut  the  door  of  Christian  charity 
too  closely.  He  devised  a  proper  site  on  his  estate  for 
the  erection  of  a  place  of  worship,  to  be  erected  by 
any  Christian  Society,  which  should  choose  to  put  up 
a  suitable  building  thereon. 

"  He  was  a  tall  man,  of  fine  proportions ;  his  figure 
erect  and  commanding  ;  his  countenance  possessing 
great  expression ;  and  his  voice  full  and  energetic. 
Indeed,  his  whole  appearance  struck  the  beholder  at 
once,  as  indicating  no  ordinary  man  ;  and  the  reality 
exceeded  the  appearance. 

"  Such  was  the  man  who  has  been  taken  from  his 
afflicted  family,  his  friends,  and  his  country.  He  met 
death  with  the  firmness  of  a  soldier,  and  of  a  man 
conscious  of  a  life  well  spent.  His  memory  is  che- 
rished by  his  family  and  friends,  with  the  most  enthu- 
siastic attachment.  The  good  he  did  survives  him  ; 
and  he  has  left  a  noble  example  to  the  youth  of  his 
country,  to  encourage  and  to  stimulate  them  in  the 
honourable  career  of  virtue  and  of  exertion.  May  it 
be  appreciated  and  followed." 


4_S  BARNWELL. 


BARNWELL. 

No  officer  in  the  service,  more  resolved  from  prin- 
ciple, more  anxious  from  patriotic  enthusiasm,  stepped 
forward  to  encounter  all  the  dangers  and  difficulties  of 
the  field,  while  the  freedom  of  his  country  was  at 
stake,  than  General  Barnwell. 

At  the  commencement  of  the  war,  he  commanded  a 
company  in  the  first  Continental  regiment  of  South 
Carolina  ;  but,  garrison  and  camp  duty  being  less  con- 
genial to  his  disi)osition  than  partisan  enterprise,  he 
speedily  quitted  the  regular,  and  received  promotion  in 
the  militia  service,  as  a  Major  of  cavalry. 

I  have  not  been  able  to  ascertain  with  accuracy,  the 
time,  or  the  particulars  of  an  expedition,  conducted 
by  him  at  a  very  early  period  of  the  contest ;  but  con- 
fidently assert,  that  a  large  and  acceptable  supply  of 
powder  was  captured  by  him,  and  safely  conveyed  to 
the  public  stores. 

At  the  battle  of  Port-Royal  Island,  he  commanded, 
under  the  orders  of  General  Moultrie,  a  small  body  of 
horse,  and  by  throwing  himself,  during  the  engage- 
ment, into  the  rear  of  the  enemy,  greatly  contributed 
to  their  defeat ;  taking  many  prisoners,  and  striking 
such  a  panic,'  that  sauve  qui  pent  became  the  general 
pass-word  among  the  disorderly  ranks,  and  the  reco- 
very of  their  boats  the  universal  aim. 

His  conduct,  during  the  invasion  of  Provost,  enti- 
tles him  to  the  highest  honour.  In  watching  the 
movements  of  the  enemy,  procuring  intelligence,  cut- 
ting off  stragglers,  and  detached  parties  from  the  army, 
lie  was  pre-eminently  useful. 

While  Colonel  Laurens,  with  a  trifling  command, 
was  disputing  the  pass  at  Cousawhatciiie,  a^iainst  the 
entire  British  army,  Major  Barnwell,  having  no  field 


BARNWELL.  4s9 

for  action,  remained  at  the  head  of  the  causeway  that 
lefl  to  it;  but,  rendered  him  essential  service,  by-end- 
ins  to  his  aid,  two  volunteers  of  his  corps,  Mr.  John 
Cnthbert,  (since.  General  Cuthbert,)  and  Charles 
Freer,  (at  a  subsequent  period  a  Caprain  in  the  service) 
whose  activity,  in  conveying  his  orders,  and  fearless 
exposure  of  their  persons,  gave  animation  to  the  ex- 
ertions of  a  militia  force,  that  had  never  before 
encountered  an  enemy.  Soon  as  Laurens  was  ordered 
to  retire,  Major  Barnwell,  with  alacrity,  joined  the 
army  under  General  Moultrie,  at  Tulafinny-Hill, 
persuaded  that  so  commanding  a  situation  might  in- 
sure effectual  resistance  ;  or,  in  the  event  of  discom- 
fiture, cause  such  a  check  to  be  given  to  the  progress 
of  the  invaders,  as  to  prevent  their  nearer  approach  to 
the  capital.  He  considered  retreat,  as  pregnant  with 
the  most  disastrous  consequences ;  and  the  loss  of  a 
battle,  far  less  injurious,  than  the  abandonment  of  the 
country.  The  event  justified  his  opinion  ;  for,  by  the 
time  that  the  retiring  army  had  crossed  the  Saltketcher 
River,  the  southern  militia  had  dispersed  almost 
to  a  man.  The  terror  excited  by  the  Indians,  who 
wore  their  war  dresses,  and  wantonly  displayed  the 
instruments  of  torture,  with  which  they  were  accus- 
tomed to  aggravate  the  sufferings  of  their  prisoners, 
created  the  most  appalling  dismay.  Whigs,  of  un- 
questionable patriotism,  who  would  cheerfully  have 
risked  their  lives  in  action,  and  used  their  utmost 
energies  to  have  repelled  the  enemy,  soon  as  retreat 
was  commanded,  sought  their  homes,  choosing  rather 
to  perish  with  their  families,  or  shelter  them  from  dan- 
ger by  submission,  than  leave  them  exposed  to  the 
depredations  of  a  ruffian  banditti,  led  by  M'Girth, 
and  of  savages,  whose  cherished  object  was  to  plun- 
der, and  destroy.  It  was  at  this  disastrous  period 
that  many  individuals,  surprised  in  their  habitations, 
and  bewildered  by  their  fears,  sought   and  obtained 

7 


50  BARNWELL. 

British  protections.  Fatal,  indeed,  was  their  derelic- 
tion of  duty,  since  left  by  the  speedy  and  |)recipitate 
retreat  of  the  invading  army,  to  be  reproached  by 
their  exasperated  countrymen,  for  their  weakness,  and 
subjected  to  penalties  very  strongly  indicating  their 
abhorrence  of  it.* 

It  was  then,  that  Major  Barnwell,  rising  in  his 
place  on  the  floor  of  the  Legislature,  moved — "  I'hat 
to  obliterate  all  unt)leasant  recollections,  an  act  of  am- 
nesty for  all  who  had  transgressed,  should  be  imme- 
diately passed."  His  proposition  met  with  pointed, 
and  even  harsh  animadversion  ;  and  Mr.  Thomas 
Ferguson,  a  distinguished  patriot,  exclaimed — "  Had 
you  not,  Major  Barnwell,  recently  shown  by  your 
activity  in  the  field,  your  perfect  devotion  to  the  cause 
of  your  country,  I  should  not  hesitate  to  pronounce 
you  a  traitor."  Similar  invective  was  used  by  other 
members  ;  when,  finding  conciliatory  measures  too 
unpopular  to  meet  success,  he  turned  with  composure 
to  his  opponents,  and  said — "  The  danger  which 
drove  the  unfortunates,  in  whose  behalf  I  would  plead 
for  mercy,  has  never  been  brought  to  your  own  doors. 
Remember,  that  when  it  does  reach  you,  that  you 
swerve  not  from  duty,  nor  forget  the  opinions  you  now 
support.     From  you,  gentlemen,  1  shall,  on  every  fu- 

*  I  know  an  instance  of  a  gentleman  of  exemplary  firmness  of  character, 
who,  being  upbraided  for  a  departure  from  principle,  because  he  had  sought 
his  home  to  share  the  fate  of  his  family,  said,  "  I  would  never  have  quitted 
the  army,  had  the  apprehension  been  removed  from  my  mind,  of  the  horrors 
which  my  wife  and  children  were  likely  to  experience  from  the  ferocity  of 
the  savages.  As  the  war  advances,  the  opportunity  may  still  be  mine,  to 
show  my  perfect  devotion  to  my  country."  His  conduct  at  the  siege  of 
Charleston,  was  exemplary.  He  was  an  inmate  of  the  prison  ships,  and  one 
of  the  inflexible  patriots,  who,  preferring  death  to  submission,  requested 
General  Greene,  without  regard  to  their  situation,  to  avenge  the  death  of 
Colonel  Hayne.  The  promises  and  threats  of  the  enemy,  were  equally  held 
in  contempt;  and  he  remained  unshaken  in  his  principles,  to  the  conclusion 
of  the  war. 


BARNWELL.  5^ 

lure  occasion,  look  for  unshaken  firmness,  and  exem- 
plary intrepidity."  When,  in  after  times,  he  found  in 
the  list  of  men  soliciting  British  favour,  the  names  of 
several  who  had  affected  to  question  his  sincerity,  it 
is  not  to  be  wondered  at,  that  he  gave  indulgence  to 
his  resentments  ;  and  that  he  never  failed,  as  often  as 
they  presented  petitions  to  the  Legislature,  to  have 
the  penalties  imposed  on  their  misconduct,  remitted, 
and  memory  of  their  political  errors  forgotten,  to  op- 
pose them  with  the  expression  of  the  most  marked 
indignation.  I  have  always  considered  it  a  misfortune 
to  this  country,  that  his  strictness  in  command,  and 
unremitted  efforts  to  render  the  militia  as  submissive 
to  discipline  as  regular  soldiers,  rendered  him  so  un- 
popular in  his  brigade,  when  advanced  to  the  com- 
mand of  the  Southern  Division  of  the  State,  as  to  induce 
him,  rather  than  give  an  excuse  for  non-performance 
of  duty,  to  retire  from  active  service.  It  is  but  too 
true,  that  great  irregularities  had  been  tolerated,  by 
commanders  more  disposed  to  temporize  than  offend, 
and  that  the  honour  of  the  country  required  that  they 
should  be  effectually  checked.  The  resources  of  the 
state,  for  the  ■  maintenance  of  the  army,  were  wan- 
tonly wasted,  and  the  rights  of  property  violated  with 
impunity.  A  destructive  system  beyond  question  ;  but 
the  curb  which  he  wished  to  impose  on  licentiousness, 
was  too  suddenly  applied,  and  too  imperious.  By  the 
failure  of  the  attempt,  the  service  lost  an  officer  of 
experience,  whose  courage,  often  tested  in  the  field, 
gave  invariably  increase  to  his  reputation,  and  the 
example  of  steady  integrity  and  perseverence,  that, 
imitated,  could  only  have  added  to  the  respectability  of 
the  Republican  character.  But,  though  stern  his  re- 
sentments, against  all  who,  regardless  of  their  plighted 
faith  to  their  country,  sought  favour  with  the  British, 
and  accepted  their  protection — to  such  as  openly  es- 
I)oused  their  cause  at  the  commencement  of  hostilities, 


62  BARNWELL. 

he  betrayed  no  symptom  of  inveteracy  ;  more  espe- 
cially, if  from  a  conviction  of  error,  they  expressed  a 
desire  to  join  and  support  the  standard  of  their  country. 
A  very  singular  occurrence  will  amply  prove  this. 
Two  brothers  had  embraced  opposite  opinions.  The 
one  was  a  decided  Royalist — the  other  a  professed 
Whig.  In  the  eventful  occurrences  which  attended 
the  progress  of  the  war,  the  first  became  a  British 
Commissary,  and  in  the  hour  of  success,  pressed  six 
barrels  of  rice  from  his  brother's  plantation  ;  who, 
yielding  to  the  storm,  and  convinced  that  the  resources 
of  America  were  inadequate  to  effectual  resistance, 
had  become  a  strenuous  admirer  of  kingly  govern- 
ment. The  successes  of  Greene,  however,  very 
speedily  cheeked  his  enthusiasm  ;  and  taking  the 
benefit  of  Governor  Matthews'  tender  of  pardon,  he 
was  again  enrolled  in  the  ranks  of  our  armies.  The 
Commissary,  who  had  sufficiently  witnessed  the  irre- 
gularities of  the  British,  and  frequent  desertion  of 
their  adherents,  about  the  same  period  made  a  confes- 
sion of  error,  and  was,  by  General  Barnwell,  admitted 
to  all  the  privileges  of  citizenship.  Peace  being  shortly 
after  restored:  the  Whig  wrote  to  his  brother,  re- 
minding him  of  the  impressed  rice,  and  demanding 
payment  for  it,  concluding  witii  a  threat,  that  in  case 
of  refusal,  a  suit  would  be  immediately  instituted  for 
the  recovery  of  the  amount.  General  Barnwell's  in- 
terposition was  instantaniously  solicited,  to  save  from 
ruin.  One  suit  decided  against  him,  would  be  the 
prelude  to  many;  and  the  Commissary  easily  [)er- 
ceived,  that  the  force  of  political  prejudice,  would 
prove  him,  on  all  occasions,  an  oppressor.  Fortu- 
nately, the  General  had  been  looking  over  the  papers 
of  Colonel  Lechmere,  who  had  been  made  a  prisoner 
at  Pocoialigo,  when  commanding  the  district  for  the 
British,  and  found  among  them,  from  the  professor  of 
chaste  principles,  a  letter  to  this  purport — "  I   am 


BARNWELL.  53 

solicitous,  my  dear  Colonel,  to  show  my  zeal  as  a 
Loyalist — my  devotion  to  the  best  of  Kinss.  I  am 
no  soldier ;  but,  as  a  magistrate,  would  ardently  pro- 
mote the  good  cause.  Put  me,  I  beseech  you,  on  the 
list  of  Justices  of  the  Peace,  for  here,  I  most  solemnly 
aver,  that  the  extinction  of  rebellion,  and  restoration 
of  his  Majesty's  happy  government,  is  to  me,  as  a  re- 
surrection from  the  dead."  *'  Send  your  brother  a 
copy  of  this  epistle,"  said  General  Barnwell,  "  and 
assure  him  from  me,  that  the  commencement  of  his 
threatened  suit,  shall  be  the  signal  to  give  it  publicity." 
It  is  scarcely  necessary  to  state,  that  the  tranquillity 
of  the  Commissary  was  never  again  disturbed.  To 
the  liberality  of  General  Barnwell,  many  officers  who 
held  commissions  under  the  Royal  Government,  were 
indebted  for  the  support  of  their  petitions,  to  become 
citizens  of  the  United  States.  And  from  some  of 
them,  particularly  Mr.  George  Roupell,  the  penalties 
of  banishment,  and  every  disqualification  removed, 
even  without  an  application  for  relief. 

At  the  head  of  the  list  of  voluntary  martyrs,  signing 
the  requisition  to  General  Greene,  not  to  suffer  any 
consideration  relative  to  their  safety  to  impede  the  ful- 
filment of  his  threat,  to  revenge  the  murder  of  Colonel 
Hayne,  by  retaliation  on  a  British  officer  of  equal  rank, 
will  be  found  the  names  of  John,  Edivard  and  Robert 
Barnwell,  alike  distinguished  by  the  steadiness  of  their 
principles,  and  exemplary  intrepidity  during  the  most 
trying  scenes  of  the  war.  The  last,  after  receiving 
seventeen  wounds,  was  left  as  df^ad  on  the  field,  but 
sought  for,  and  conveyed  to  a  neighbouring  plantation, 
recovered.* 

*  The  life  of  Mr.  Robert  Barnwell  was  saved  by  the  affectionate  and  assi- 
duous attention  of  liis  relative,  Miss  Mary  Anna  Gibbes,  (the  same  who  rescued 
from  danger  her  infant  cousin,  Fenwick,  as  will  hereafter  be  related.)  When 
considered  by  all  around  him  beyond  the  reach  of  mortal  aid,  she  steadily 
persisted  to  bathe  and  dress  his  wounds,  till  exiiausted  nature  recovered  Hi 
facultiesj  and  gave  animation  to  his  apparently  lifeless  corpse. 


54  BARNWELL. 

Turning  his  attention  more  particularly  to  literary 
pursuits,  he  appeared  in  the  Legislative  Councils  of  the 
State,  and  on  the  floor  of  Congress,  with  distinguished 
credit  both  to  himself  and  his  country.  Nor  will  I 
neglect  to  mention  the  name  of  their  nephew,  William 
Elliott,  who,  though  but  a  youth,  after  being  severely 
wounded,  was  equally,  with  themselves,  resolute  to 
devote  himself  to  his  country,  by  signing  the  requisition 
to  General  Greene,  so  highly  characteristic  of  patriotic 
enthusiasm. 


DISTINGUISHED  CONTINENTAL  OFFICERS. 


Having  endeavoured,  with  strict  observance  of  truth,  to  detail  the 
services  of  Moultrie,  and  briefly  sketched  the  characters  and 
achievements  of  the  Partisan  Commanders  of  Militia,  who  attained 
the  highest  celebrity,  I  turn,  with  peculiar  interest,  to  the  Officers 
of  the  Continental  Line,  the  most  distinguished  in  the  annals  of  the 
Southern  War  ;  beginning  with  those,  who,  by  their  talents  and  in- 
trepidity, so  happily  seconded  the  enterprise,  and  indefatigable 
exertions  of  Greene,  till  the  expulsion  of  enemy  gave  a  stamp  of 
excellence  to  his  military  character,  that  must  for  ever  excite  the 
applause  and  admiration  of  posterity. 

ISAAC  HUGER. 

Among  the  patriots  of  South  Carolina,  the  Rubers 
were  highly  distinguished.  Daniel  was  long  a  mem- 
ber of  Congress.  John,  an  able  and  industrious  assist- 
ant in  the  state  councils.  Francis  was  numbered 
among  the  brave  defenders  of  the  pass  at  Sullivan's 
Island,  when  assailed  by  the  British  fleet.  Benjamin, 
a  soldier  of  the  highest  promise,  closed  a  life  of  honour 
on  the  field,  falling  before  the  lines  of  Charleston, 
during  the  invasion  of  Provost.  Isaac,  of  whom  I 
would  more  particularly  speak,  as  a  bold  and  enter- 
prising commander,  was  pre-eminently  distinguished. 
The  cloud  of  misfortune  did,  it  must  be  acknowledged, 
at  one  period  obscure  his  fame;  the  disastrous  sur- 
prise  of  Monk's   Corner  was  highly  injurious  to  his 


56  HUGER. 

military  reputation.  But  when  it  is  recollected  how 
extremely  difficult  the  task  to  keep  alive  the  vigilance 
essential  to  security,  among  troops  newly  initiated  in 
military  service,  and  how  frequently  the  most  judicious 
arrangements  of  the  commanders  of  detachments  are 
thwarted  by  the  negligence  of  the  patrols  and  videttes, 
whose  unremitted  attention  alone  counteract  the  ener- 
gies of  an  enterprising  enemy,  we  cannot  too  harshly 
blame  an  officer  for  a  single  disaster,  who,  taught  by 
misfortune,  never  a  second  time  experienced  discom- 
fiture; and  who,  in  every  subsequent  rencounter  with 
the  British  army,  by  his  zeal  and  intrepidity,  acquired 
increase  of  reputation. 

At  the  commencement  of  the  war  General  Huger 
was  commissioned  as  Lieutenant  Colonel  of  the  1st 
Continental  Regiment,  and  shortly  after  promoted  to 
the  command  of  the  5th.  There  was  no  battle  of  con- 
sequence fought  in  which  he  was  not  engaged,  display- 
ing, on  every  occasion,  great  coolness,  and  invincible 
resolution.  How  highly  he  possessed  the  confidence 
of  General  Greene,  is  manifested  by  the  trust  reposed 
in  him  by  that  distinguished  officer,  when  he  was 
anxious  to  affi)rd  his  personal  aid  to  Morgan,  who  was 
endeavouring  to  elude  the  eager  pursuit  of  Lord  Corn- 
wallis,  and  to  conduct  the  prisoners  taken  at  the  Cow- 
pens  to  a  place  of  security.  He  committed  the  charge 
of  the  main  army  to  General  Huger,  ordering  him  to 
conduct  its  retreat,  and  to  join  him  at  Guilford  Court- 
House.  Accompanied  by  a  small  escort  of  dragoons, 
General  Greene  then  set  out  in  search  of  Morgan,  and 
happily  joined  him  in  safety.  That  Huger's  conduct, 
on  this  occasion,  was  highly  approved  cannot  be 
doubted,  since  we  find  him  at  the  battle  of  Guilford, 
which  immediately  followed,  intrusted  with  the  com- 
mand of  the  Continental  Line.  Here,  supporting  his 
character  for  exemplary  bravery,  he  was  severely 
wounded.      At  Hobkirk's  Hill,    he  commanded  the 


HUGER.  67 

right  wing  of  the  army,  and  had  made  considerable 
impression  on  the  line  of  the  enemy,  when  an  unfor- 
tunate movement,  which  threw  Gunby's  regiment  into 
confusion,  disconcerted  all  the  measures  of  General 
Greene,  and  compelled  him  to  relinquish  a  victory 
within  his  grasp,  for  a  retreat,  which,  though  not  dis- 
graceful, was  necessarily  attended  with  the  deepest 
and  most  poignant  mortification.  The  exertions  of 
General  Huger,  in  endeavouring  to  inspire  courage  by 
example,  and  to  restore  the  order  that  had  been  lost, 
brought  him  so  frequently  to  the  muzzles  of  the  ene- 
my's muskets,  that  it  was  considered  by  all  miracu- 
lous, that  he  escaped  without  injury.  The  abandon- 
ment of  the  interior  country,  by  Lord  Rawdpn,  very 
soon  after  this,  allowed  the  General  the  happiness  of 
embracing  his  family,  from  which  he  had  been  long 
separated.  When  General  Greene  was  presented  to 
them,  he,  with  much  emotion,  said — "  I  would  never, 
my  dear  Huger,  have  exposed  you,  as  often  as  I  have 
done,  to  bear  the  brunt  of  battle,  and  varied  dangers 
of  chn  field,  had  I  known  how  numerous  and  lovely  a 
family,  were  dependant  on  your  protection," 


GENERAL  MORGAN. 

This  distinguished  officer  commenced  his  military 
career  under  General  Braddock,  but,  in  so  inferior  a 
station,  as  to  have  been  subjected  to  corporal  punish- 
ment for  some  unguarded  expressions  towards  a  supe- 
rior. It  is  painful  to  mention  such  a  circumstance ; 
and  I  should  not  have  done  it,  had  it  not  been  recorded 
to  his  honour,  that,  incapable  of  entertaining  lasting 
resentments,  he  had  been  distinguished,   during   the 

8 


58  MORGAN. 

Revolutionary  War,  by  the  generous  attention  paid  to 
every  British  officer  who  became  his  prisoner.  Com- 
manding a  rifle  company  before  Quebec,  he  u'as 
directed,  under  Arnold,  to  attack  the  lower  town  ;  and 
on  the  retirement  of  that  officer,  when  wounded, 
taking  the  van  of  the  assailing  column,  carried  the 
first  and  second  barriers.  He  even  penetrated  into 
the  upper  town,  and  was  in  possession  of  the  main 
guard,  giving  paroles  to  the  officers  who  surrendered, 
when,  every  prospect  of  success  being  baffled  by  the 
fall  of  Montgomery,  and  the  enemy  enabled  to  turn 
their  entire  force  against  him,  he  was  surrounded  and 
taken.  His  bravery  well  known,  and  his  activity 
justly  appreciated,  an  attempt  was  made  by  an  officer 
of  rank  in  the  British  service,  to  induce  him,  by  the 
tender  of  wealth  and  promotion,  to  join  the  royal 
standard  ;  but,  with  the  true  spirit  of  Republican  vir- 
tue, he  rejected  the  i)roposition,  requesting  the  temp- 
ter— "  Never  again  to  insult  him  by  an  offer,  which 
plainly  implied,  that  he  thought  him  a  villain." 

Advanced  to  the  command  of  a  regiment,  his  inde- 
fatigable activity  greatly  conlributed  to  the  capture  of 
Burgoyne,  being  regarded,  according  to  the  repeated 
declarations  of  the  enemy,  as  their  greatest  scourge. 

General  Gates  considered  it  as  an  offi^nce  never  to 
be  forgiven,  that  Morgan  had  peremptorily  refused  to 
countenance  the  intrigues  that  were  to  remove  the 
Commander  in  Chief,  and  to  place  liim  at  the  head  of 
the  army.  He,  therefore,  never  in  the  slightest  degree 
mentioned  his  meritorious  services  in  his  official  des- 
patches, and  appeared  to  exalt  the  claims  of  other 
officers  to  applause,  the  more  certainly  to  mortify 
Morgan.  Such  malice,  however,  availed  not  to  de- 
prive him  of  his  full  share  of  glory.  His  country 
acknowledged  the  legitimacy  of  his  title  to  fame  ;  and 
the  captive  General  declared,  in  allusion  to  the  j. ar- 
ticular nature  of  the  service  in  which  he  was  employed, 


MORGAN.  S9> 

"  That  he  commanded  the  finest  corps  in  the  world." 
His  advancement  to  still  higher  command,  gave  in- 
crease to  his  reputation  ;  and  so  long  as  the  heart  is 
susceptible  of  patriotic  feeling,  and  capable  of  acknow- 
ledging, with  gratitude,  one  of  the  most  splendid  and 
momentous  achievements  that  was  ever  accomplislud, 
the  battle  of  the  Cowpens  will  raise  the  heroic  gallan- 
try of  Morgan  to  the  highest  pinnacle  of  Fame. 


GENERAL  OTHO  HOLLAND  WILLIAMS, 

OF    MARYLAND. 

He  was  no  less  distinguished  by  the  elegance  of  his 
manners,  and  politeness  in  [)rivate  society,  than  by  his 
chivalrous  enterprise  and  exemj)lary  constancy  in  the 
field.  The  services  which  he  rendered  as  Adjutant 
General,  in  perfecting  discipline  and  directing  the 
manceuvrings  of  the  light  troops,  covering  the  retreat 
of  the  army  till  the  accomplishment  of  the  memorable 
passage  of  the  Dan,  cannot  be  too  highly  estimated. 
Possessing  the  most  perfect  self-command,  he  put 
nothing  at  hazard,  and  frequently  suffered  the  oppor- 
tunity to  escape,  of  acquiring  advantages,  which  would 
have  increased  his  own  fame,  rather  than  to  risk, 
what  might  in  its  result,  prove  injurious  to  his  coun- 
try. Confining  my  observations  to  his  conduct  in  the 
Southern  War,  it  is  due  to  his  merit  to  say,  that  after 
the  defeat  of  the  army  at  Camden,  and  its  abandon- 
ment by  Gates,  he  conducted  it  to  a  place  of  security. 
His  country  is  likewise  indebted  to  him,  for  his  judi- 
cious conduct  in  the  retreat  over  the  Dan,  already 
alluded  to,  and  for  his  exemplary  intrepidity  in  the 
battles  of  Guilford,  Hobkirk's  Hill,  and  Eutaws.     So 


60  WILLIAMS. 

close  was  the  pursuit  maintained  by  Lord  CornwalliSs 
that  the  officers  of  the  cavalry  covering  the  rear,  to 
relieve  their  hunger,  have  often,  while  holding  the 
bridle  with  one  hand,  attempted  to  roast  a  piece  of 
bacon,  stuck  on  the  point  of  a  stick,  with  the  other, 
and  been  obliged  to  eat  it  when  scarcely  warmed 
through,  compelled,  by  the  rapid  approach  of  the 
enemy,  to  mount  and  retire.  The  character  of 
General  Williams  may  be  drawn  in  a  few  words.  In 
the  field,  he  exercised  caution,  united  with  invincible 
intrepidity  ;  in  camp,  the  strictest  discipline.  In  the 
cabinet,  he  distinguished  himself  by  his  perspicuity 
and  profound  intelligence — qualifications  which  se- 
cured to  him,  the  confidence  of  his  General,  the 
esteem  of  his  brother  officers,  and  the  love  and  respect 
of  the  soldiers  he  commanded. 


JOHN  EAGER  HOWARD, 

OF    MARYLAND. 

No  man  possessed,  in  a  higher  degree,  the  confidence 
of  General  Greene— none  better  deserved  it.  He  had 
every  requisite  for  the  perfection  of  the  military  cha- 
racter— patience,  judgment,  intrepidity,  and  decision. 
To  his  memorable  charge  with  the  bayonet  at  the 
Cowpens,  so  nobly  supported  by  Washington  and  his 
cavalry,  that  important  victory  is  chiefly  to  be  attri- 
buted. Nor  do  I  regard  his  gallantry  less  worthy  of 
admiration,  when,  at  the  battle  of  Guilford,  following 
up  the  blow  inflicted  by  Washington,  he  charged  the 
second  battalion  of  the  British  Guards,  and  nearly 
annihilated  them.  At  Hobkirk's  Hill,  his  efforts  to 
rally  the  broken   regiment  of  Gunby,  did  him  high 


HOWARD.  61 

honour ;  nor  did  the  bitterness  of  grief  ever  pervade 
the  human  bosom  more  keenly,  than  in  his,  when  he 
found  all  his  exertions  to  revive  the  courage  of  men, 
who,  on  every  former  occasion,  were  distinguished  for 
intrepidity,  was  unproductive  of  the  slightest  effect. 
At  Eutaw,  he  was  severely  wounded,  but  not  till  he 
had  seen  his  regiment  retrieve  its  tarnished  reputation, 
and  triumphantly  drive  the  enemy  before  them.  In 
concluding  my  encomiums  on  his  merits,  I  do  not  con- 
sider it  an  exaggeration  to  say,  in  the  words  of  Gen- 
eral Greene — "  Howard  is  as  good  an  officer  as  the 
world  affords,  and  deserves  a  statue  of  gold,  no  less 
than  the  Roman  and  Grecian  heroes." 


COLONEL  CARRLNGTON, 

OF    VIRGINIA. 

I  wish  I  could  more  particularly  speak  of  the  ser- 
vices of  Colonel  Carrington,  as  I  am  well  apprized, 
that  he  enjoyed  the  entire  confidence  of  General 
Greene;  and  by  his  judicious  councils,  and  unremitted 
exertions  as  Quarter  Master  General,  greatly  contri- 
buted to  the  advantages  gained  over  the  enemy.  It 
is  an  indisputable  fact,  that  in  a  country  exhausted, 
and  deficient  in  all  resources,  he  still  contrived  to  pro- 
vide such  supplies  for  the  comfort  and  support  of  the 
army,  that  he  appeared  to  have  achieved  impossi- 
bilities, and-not  a  murmur  nor  complaint  impeded  the 
progress  to  victory.  A  dispute,  relative  to  rank,  had 
called  him  to  the  North,  before  it  had  been  my  happi- 
ness to  receive  a  commission  in  the  service  ;  but,  pre- 
viously to  the  evacuation  of  Charleston,  he  had 
rejoined  the  army,  and  resumed  his   former  station  ; 


62  CARRINGTON. 

which  gave  me  ample  reason  to  believe,  that  where- 
soever placed,  his  |)re-eininent  abilities  must  have 
been  of  the  highest  importance  to  his  country. 


LIEUTENANT  COLONEL  LEE, 

OF    THE    LEGION. 

Favoured  with  his  friendship,  and  honoured  by  a 
commission  in  his  regiment,  in  drawing  a  sketch  of 
the  character  of  this  distinguished  partisan,  I  may  be 
suspected  of  indulging  improper  partialities.  I  dis- 
claim any  feeling  that  could  produc  them,  and  would 
far  rather,  that  his  rei)utation  should  depend  upon  a 
candid  examination  of  his  military  services,  than  any 
commendation,  that  from  grateful  attachment,  I  might 
be  inclined  to  bestow.  General  Charles  Lee,  who 
was,  beyond  question,  a  competent  judge  of  military 
talent,  averred — "  That  Henry  Lee  came  a  soldier 
from  his  mother's  womb."  General  Greene  pro- 
nounced him  The  Eye  of  the  Southern  Army  ;  and 
to  his  councils,  gave  the  most  constant,  implicit,  and 
unbounded  coniidence.  In  the  hour  of  difficulty,  (and 
from  the  exhausted  and  distracted  state  of  the  South — ■ 
the  wretched  and  forlorn  condition  of  the  army — the 
suj)eriority  of  force,  and  endless  resources  of  the 
enemy,  it  was,  to  us,  a  war  of  difficulties,)  was  danger 
to  be  averted,  was  prompt  exertion  necessary  to  pre- 
vent revolt — crush  insurrection — cut  off  supj)lies — 
harass  the  enemy,  or  pursue  hira  to  destruction — to 
whom  did  he  so  often  turn  as  to  Lee?  That  such 
preference  should  give  birth  to  Envy,  and  cause  the 
calumnies  arising  from  it,  to  be  propagated,  and  che- 
rished with  an  avidity  that  would  almost  lead  to  the 


LEE.  68 

supposition,  that  they  were  believed  correct,  cannot, 
from  (he  perverse  propensities  of  the  human  heart,  be 
considered  surprising.  Lee  had  his  enemies,  and  they 
were  not  slow  in  giving  currency  to  opinions  injurious 
to  his  reputation.  Measuring  the  extent  of  his  powers, 
by  the  contracted  scale  of  their  own  abilities,  no 
allowance  was  made  for  the  calculations  of  superior 
genius;  and  the  acuteness  of  almost  unerring  discern- 
ment ;  and  because  he  did  not,  on  all  occasions,  en- 
gage with  a  blind  precipitancy,  according  with  their 
judgment,  would  have  fixed  on  him  the  imputation  of 
a  shyness,  that  he  never  knew.  In  his  memoirs, 
which,  as  a  liter  ry  composition,  do  him  high  honour, 
it  is  remarkable,  that  he  is  so  shy  in  claiming  merit ; 
and  certainly,  in  various  instances,  has  withheld  pre- 
tensions, which  he  might  have  fairly  made,  to  high 
distinction.  He  has  not  hinted,  in  the  slightest  de- 
gree, that  the  grand  scheme,  for  the  recovery  of  the 
two  Southern  States,  when  Lord  Cornwallis,  after 
the  battle  of  Guillord,  retired  to  Wilmington,  was 
first  suggested  to  General  Greene  by  him  ;  and  that  it 
would  have  been  afterwards  abandoned,  but  for  his 
earnest  remonstrances.  Such,  however,  was  the  truth, 
and  perfect  the  evidence  corroborating  it.  In  reply  to 
my  inquiries  on  the  subject,  the  Honourable  Judge 
Johnston,  of  Abingdon,  Virginia,  a  meritorious  and 
distinguished  officer  of  the  Revolution,  says — "  1  am 
perfectly  satisfied,  that  the  grand  enterprise,  for  the 
recovery  of  South  Carolina  and  Georgia,  by  marching 
into  those  states,  when  Lord  Cornwallis  retired  to 
Wilmington,  originated  with  Colonel  Lee.  Accident 
afforded  me  the  view  of  a  letter,  written  by  General 
Greene  to  Colonel  Lee,  immediately  after  the  second 
battle  of  Camden,  fought  on  the  25th  of  April,  1781, 
in  which  the  General  expressed  a  determination  to 
abandon  the  scheme  of  continuing  his  progress  south- 
wardly ;   and  directed  Lee  to  join  him  immediately 


64  LEE. 

with  his  corps,  which  had,  about  that  time,  reduced 
the  post  of  the  enemy  at  Wright's  Bluff,  on  the  San- 
tee  River.  I  shall  never  forget  one  expression,  in  that 
letter,  which  goes  very  far  to  prove,  that  I  am  right, 
in  the  opinion  that  I  have  ever  since  entertained.  '  I 
'  fear,  my  friend,  said  the  General,  that  I  have  pursued 

*  your  advice  too  far.  I  have  resolved  to  march  back 
'  with  the  army  towards  Virginia,  and  desire  that  you 

*  will  join  me  with  your  command  as  soon  as  possible.' 
Without  a  moment's  delay.  Colonel  Lee  left  the  le- 
gion, and  sought  General  Greene,  doubtless  to  coun- 
teract the  pernicious  tendency  of  this  hasty  resolution, 
since  he  speedily  returned,  countermanded  the  orders 
to  unite  with  the  main  army,  crossed  the  Santee,  and 
marched  rapidly  forward  to  lay  siege  to  Fort  Motte." 
This  statement  is  fully  supported  by  the  testimony  of 
Dr.  Matthew  Irvine ;  and  more  satisfactory  authority 
could  not  be  desired,  since  he  was  actually  the  agent, 
the  organ  of  communication  betwixt  the  two,  while 
the  scheme  was  in  agitation,  and  ripening  for  per- 
fection. Communication,  by  letter,  was  considered 
as  inexpedient  and  dangerous  ;  and  by  personal  inter- 
views with  the  parties,  delivering  opinions  reciprocally, 
and  conveying  the  answers  to  them,  he  became  the 
happy  instrument  of  bringing  to  maturity,  the  plan 
that  gave  liberty  to  the  South.  The  letter  mentioned 
by  Judge  Johnston,  my  correspondent,  was  seen  also 
by  Ur.  Irvine.  He  states,  that  the  General  added — 
"  Although  I  am  confident,  that  your  wish  was,  to 
give  increase  to  my  military  reputation  ;  yet,  it  is  evi- 
dent to  me,  that  by  listening  to  your  advice,  I  have 
forfeited  my  pretension  to  it  for  ever."  Can  further 
evidence  be  required  ?  In  the  eyes  of  the  unpreju- 
diced, I  should  say,  certainly  not.  Believing,  then, 
that  Lee's  advice  to  General  Greene,  induced  him  to 
transfer  the  war  into  South  Carolina,  I  shall  briefly 
state   the   consequences  resulting  from  the  measure. 


LEE.  e5 

North  Carolina  became  encouraged,  by  finding  that 
her  future  security  was  not  considered  as  endangered, 
and  the  Partisan  Commanders  of  the  South,  Sumter, 
Marion  and  Pickens,  who,  unsupported,  had  already 
effected  wonders,  were  now  stimulated  to  give  in- 
crease to  activity  and  enterprise,  from  the  conviction, 
that  they  would  not  only  contend  with  the  enemy  upon 
more  equal  terms,  but  be  enabled,  more  effectually,  to 
maintain  the  advantages  resulting  from  their  valour  and 
their  victories.  The  fall  of  the  military  posts  held  by 
the  enemy,  followed  in  rapid  succession.  The  sur- 
render of  Fort  Watson,  Fort  Motte,  Fort  Granby,  in 
South  Carolina,  and  of  Fort  Cornwallis  at  Augusta,  in 
Georgia,  give  the  stamp  of  judicious  foresight  to  the 
councils  of  Lee.  Nor  is  less  applause  due  to  the 
skill  and  enterprise  attributed  to  him,  in  their  reduc- 
tion. Had  he  directed  the  operations  of  the  besiegers 
at  Ninety-Six,  instead  of  Kosciusko,  different  indeed 
would  have  been  the  result.  On  his  arrival  at  the 
post,  immediately  after  the  capture  of  Fort  Corn- 
wallis, he,  with  the  eye  of  a  soldier,  at  once  perceived, 
that  the  plan  of  operations,  and  point  of  attack, 
adopted  and  pursued  by  General  Greene,  had  not  been 
advantageously  chosen.  With  that  exquisite  military 
sagacity,  which  cannot  be  denied  him,  he  immediately 
satisfied  the  Commander  in  Chief,  that  the  place 
would  be  easily  carried,  by  obtaining  possession  of  the 
western  redoubt,  a  slight  fortification  at  a  distance 
from  the  enemy's  main  work,  but  of  great  importance, 
since  it  completely  commanded  the  only  fountain  from 
which  the  garrison  could  procure  water ;  and  subse- 
quent events  incontestibly  proved,  that  if  his  plan  had 
been  adopted  in  the  first  instance,  the  fort  must  have 
fallen,  even  though  defended  by  the  gallantry  of  Cru- 
ger,  seconded   by  his   able   coadjutor.    Green.*      In 

*  Major  in  a  Provincial  Regiment. 


66  LEE. 

evidence  of  his  services,  and  the  extensive  benefits 
resulting;  from  them,  it  is  only  necessary  to  ^ive  an 
extract  of  a  letter  from  General  Greene,  expressed  in 
the  following  terms  : — "  Lieutenant  Colonel  Lee  re- 
tires for  a  time  for  the  recovery  of  his  health.  I  am 
more  indebted  to  this  officer,  than  to  any  other,  for  the 
advantages  gained  over  the  enemy,  in  the  operations 
of  the  last  campaign  ;  and  should  be  wanting  in  gra- 
titude, not  to  acknowledge  the  importance  of  his  ser- 
vices, a  detail  of  which  is  his  best  penegyric."  Da- 
ted February  18th,  1782. 

Of  the  horses  of  his  regiment,  he  has  been  fre- 
quently accused  of  being  too  careful  ;  but,  considering 
the  advantages  accruing  from  a  precaution,  by  which  a 
constant  superiority  of  cavalry  was  maintained,  how 
can  he  be  blamed  with  justice,  more  especially,  when 
it  is  known,  that  the  number  of  prisoners  taken  in  a 
single  campaign,  by  the  dragoons  of  the  Legion,  dou- 
bled their  effective  number;  and  that  every  individual 
of  the  cor[)s,  was  armed  with  -a  Potter'' s  sivord,  the 
weapon  the  most  highly  estimated  for  service,  taken  in 
personal  conflict  from  the  enemy.  Of  the  lives  of  his 
infantry  he  was  never  sparing.  Tiiere  was  no  action 
in  which  they  were  engaged,  in  which  they  did  not 
perform  a  conspicuous  part ;  while  the  lamentable  fate 
of  poor  Whalings  and  his  followers,  (fully  detailed  in 
another  part  of  this  work)  evince,  that  their  fall  was 
regarded  as  a  needless  and  unnecessary  sacrifice.  Of 
the  free  exposure  of  his  person,  where  exami)le  was 
necessary  to  excite  to  gallant  achievement,  there  can 
be  no  doubt.  If  there  are  any  who  cherish  less  cha- 
ritable opinions,  they  must  deny  discernment  to 
Greene,  who  employed  him  in  the  most  hazardous 
enterprises  ;  and  judgment  to  the  immortal  Washing- 
ton, who,  when  the  insurrection  took  place  in  the 
upper  parts  of  Pennsylvania,  placed  him  at  the  head 
of  the  army,  with  a  declaration,  that  he  considered 


LEE.  67 

him  the  man  in  the  United  States,  the  best  calculated 
to  suppress  it,  with  promptitude,  and  effect.  Towards 
his  officers,  he  possessed  the  most  friendly  and  affec- 
tionate feelings.  To  his  soldiers,  he  was  a  parent — 
he  was  attentive  to  their  wants,  and  indulgent  to  their 

,  wishes.  His  constant  and  assiduous  care,  was  exer- 
cised to  procure  them  comforts,  and  with  such  efifect, 
that  while  other  corps  were  almost  entirely  destitute 
of  clothing,  the  Legion  were  enabled,  invariably,  to 
preserve  a  highly  respectable  appearance.  I  would 
mention,  with  particular  commendation,  the  vis^ilance 
of  Colonel  Lee.  Surprised,  when  a  Cai)tain  in 
Bland's  regiment,  near  Philadelphia,  he  profitted  by 
experience,  and  was,  to  the  end  of  the  war,  so  atten- 
tive to  the  security  of  the  force  which  he  commanded, 
that,  whenever  within  striking  distance  of  the  enemy, 
the  Sergeant  of  the  Quarter  Guard,  invariably,  at 
midnight,  woke  up  ever  Officer  and  Private  Soldier, 
who,  by  order,  putting  on  their  entire  dress  and  accou- 
trements, might  again  seek  repose,  but  in  such  a 
position,  that  on  the  firing  of  a  musket,  or  tap  of  a 
drum,  every  man  was  at  his  post,  prepared  for  aetion, 
or  ready  for  retreat,  as  circumstances  required.  When 
surprised  at  the  Spread  Eagle  Tavern,  near  Philadel- 
phia, and  surrounded  by  the  entire  British  cavalry,  he 
assured  the  dragoons  under  his  command,  who  gal- 
lantly joined  in  defending  the  house,  that  he  should 
consider  their  future  establishment  in  life,  as  his  pecu- 
liar care  ;  and  he  honourably  kept  his  word.  They 
were  all,  in  turn,  commissioned  ;  and  by  their  exem- 
plary good  conduct,  increased  their  own  renown,  and 

.  the  reputation  of  their  regiment. 


g8  WASHINGTON. 


GENERAL  WILLIAM  WASHINGTON. 

With  no  less  respect  and  admiration,  would  I  re- 
cord the  gallant  achievements  of  the  modern  Marcellus: 
the  sword  of  his  country — Lieutenant  Colonel  William 
Washington,  who,  at  the  first  call  to  arms,  engaged  in 
the  military  service,  and  to  the  termination  of  the  war, 
appeared  on  the  field  of  glory  with  pre-eminent  dis- 
tinction. He  fought,  with  his  gallant  regiment,  at 
York  Island,  and  receiving  merited  applause,  shared  its 
difficulties  and  dangers  on  the  retreat  through  New 
Jersey.  At  the  surprise  of  the  Hessians  at  Trenton, 
as  a  Captain  in  the  line,  he  headed  the  van  of  one  of 
the  assailing  columns  ;  and,  while  leading  on  his  com- 
pany to  the  attack,  was  severely  wounded  in  ihe  hand. 
He  was  now  transferred,  with  an  increase  of  rank,  to 
the  cavalry;  and  having  the  good  fortune  to  escape 
the  slaughter  at  Tappan,  with  the  remains  of  Bland's, 
Baylor's,  and  Moylan's  regiments  of  horse,  was  de- 
tached to  join  the  army  of  General  Lincoln,  in  South 
Carolina.  His  first  rencontre  with  the  enemy,  took 
place  betwixt  Ashley  Ferry  and  Rantowle's  Bridge, 
where  he  drove  back  the  cavalry  of  the  British  Le- 
gion, commanded  by  Lieutenant  Colonel  Tarleton, 
and  took  several  prisoners ;  but,  being  unsupported  by 
infantry,  gained  little  advantage  from  his  Success.  The 
surprises  at  Monk's  Corner,  and  Laneau's  Ferry, 
which  had  nearly  caused  the  entire  destruction  of  the 
American  cavalry,  are,  in  no  degree,  attributable  to 
him,  as  he  acted,  in  both  instances,  in  a  subordinate 
capacity;  and  at  the  last  place,  finding  his  advice  to 
pass  the  River  without  delay,  disregarded,  he  pre- 
pared for  the  catastrophe,  and  on  the  sudden  attack  of 
Tarleton,  plunged  into  the  River,  and  happily  gained 
the  opposite  shore.     These  repeated  disasters,  com- 


WASHINGTON.  ',  69t 

pellins  him  to  retire,  with  the  remainder  of  his  corps, 
•to  the  borders  of  North  Carolina,  he  applied,  but  in 
vain,  to  General  Gates,  for  the  aid  of  his  name  and 
authority,  to  expedite  its  restoration  and  equipment. 
Severely  did  that  infatuated  General  pay  the  penalty 
of  his  injudicious  refusal.  Had  the  request  been 
attended  to,  the  presence  of  a  superior  cavalry,  led  by 
so  distinguished  a  soldier  as  Washington,  might  greatly 
have  influenced  the  success  of  the  battle,  and,  at  all 
events,  prevented  the  terrible  slaughter  that  followed 
the  defeat  at  Camden.  While  attached  to  the  light 
corps  commanded  by  General  Morgan,  he,  by  a  very 
ingenious  stratagem,  carried  the  post  at  Rugely's, 
taking  a  large  body  of  the  enemy,  without  firing  a 
single  shot.  Apprized  of  the  character  of  his  oppo- 
nent, Rugely,  he  fixed  a  pine  log  on  the  front  wheels 
of  a  wagon,  so  as  to  make  it  appear,  at  a  distance, 
as  a  field-piece,  and  threatening  immediate  destruc- 
tion should  resistance  be  attempted;  the  affrighted 
Colonel  requested,  that  quarter  might  be  allowed,  and 
surrendered  at  discretion.  It  was  on  this  occasion, 
that  Lord  Cornwallis,  writing  to  Lieutenant  Colonel 
Tarleton,  laconically  said — "  Rugely  will  not  be  a 
Brigadier."  He,  in  a  high  degree,  contributed  to  the 
achievement  of  the  brilliant  victory  at  the  Cowpens, 
although  his  too  ardent  zeal  had  nearly  cost  him  his 
life  ;  for,  anxious  by  example,  to  increase  the  energy 
of  piirsuit,  he  was  led  so  far  in  advance,  as  to  be  sur- 
rounded by  several  officers  of  the  British  Legion  ;  and 
must  have  fallen,  had  he  not  been  rescued  by  the  gal- 
lantry of  a  Sergeant,  and  his  Bugleman,  Ball,  who,  by 
a  well-aimed  pistol-shot,  disabled  the  officer,  whose 
sword  was  raised  for  his  destruction.  In  the  retreat 
into  Virginia,  and  in  all  the  manoeuvres  subsequent  to 
the  recrossing  of  the  Dan,  he  essentially  aided  to 
baffle  the  skilful  efforts  of  Lord  Cornwallis,  to  force 
General  Greene,  heading  an  inferior  army,  to  battle. 


70  WASHINGTON. 

At  Guilford,  be  acted  a  most  conspicuous  part.  By 
a  spirited  and  most  judicious  charge,  he  broke  tbe  re- 
giment of  Guards  commanded  by  Colonel  Steward, 
who  fell  in  the  action,  and  followed  by  the  gallant 
Colonel  Howard,  leading  on  the  Marylanders,  with 
fixed  bayonets,  nearly  annihilated  them.  Trifles 
have  often,  in  the  heat  of  battle,  been  productive  of 
the  most  unlooked  for  consequences.  Washington's 
cap  fell,  and  whih^  he  dismounted  to  recover  it,  a 
round  of  grape,  from  the  British  artillery,  fired  by  the 
order  of  General  Webster,  on  friends  as  well  as  foes, 
the  more  effectually  to  check  the  success  of  the  xAme- 
ricans,  so  grievously  wounded  the  officer  next  in 
command,  that,  incai)acitated  from  managing  his 
horse,  the  animal  wheeled  round  and  carried  him  off 
the  field,  followed  by  the  rest  of  the  cavahy,  who 
unhappily  supposed  that  the  movement  had  been  di- 
rected. This  accident  saved  the  remnant  of  the 
Guards,  and,  in  all  probability,  the  entire  British  army. 
I  heard,  from  an  officer  of  distinction  in  the  army  of 
the  enemy,  who  was  wounded  in  this  action,  the  fol- 
lowing interesting  particulars  : — "  1  was  near  General 
Webster,  when  the  charge  was  made  by  Washington. 
The  desperate  situation  of  the  Guards,  had  its  effect 
on  all  around.  An  officer  of  rank,  in  the  American 
army,  quickly  perceiving  it,  rode  up  to  the;  British 
line,  and  called  aloud,  '  surrender,  gentlemen,  and  be 
certain  of  good  quarters.'  Terrified  by  appearances, 
and  concluding  that  defeat  was  inevitable,  the  soldiers 
of  the  regiment  De  Bose,  were  actually  throwing 
down  their  arms.  Confusion  was  increasing.  Gen- 
eral Webster,  whose  presence  of  mind  could  not  be 
disturbed,  exclaimed — '  Unless  that  gallant  fellow  is 
taken  off,  we  are  lost.'  A  Lieutenant  of  artillery, 
bringing  up  a  field-juece  at  the  moment,  was  directed 
to  fire  into  the  thron^i;,  where  the  Guards  now  appeared 
to  be  greatly  out-numberedj  and  did  so  with  the  happiest 


WASHINGTON.  71 

success — the  cavalry  wheeled  off,  the  remains  of  the 
battalion  rallied,  and  the  army  was  saved."  At  Hob- 
kirk's  Hill,  new  honours  awaited  him.  Gaining  the 
rear  of  the  British  army,  by  judicious  manoeuvring 
durins  the  action,  he  cajDtured  and  parolled  eleven  offi- 
cers, and  made  prisoners  of  upwards  of  two  hundred 
men — fifty  of  whom  he  brought  off  the  field  ;  the 
retreat  of  the  American  forces  obliged  him  to  relin- 
quish the  remainder.  But,  in  the  evening  of  the  day 
on  which  the  engagement  took  place,  having  decoyed 
Coffin,'  who  commanded  the  horse  of  the  enemy,  into 
an  ambuscade,  he  charged  him  with  an  intrepidity  that 
could  not  be  withstood,  and  compelled  him,  after  the 
loss  of  half  of  his  men,  to  fly  and  take  shelter  in 
Camden.  At  the  battle  of  Eutaw,  though  unfor- 
tunate, no  hero  had  ever,  in  a  higher  degree,  merited 
success.  His  reiieated  charges  on  the  British  light 
infantry,  would,  probably,  have  disconcerted  a  corps 
less  brave,  or  commanded  by  any  other  officer  than 
Majoribanks;*  but,  they  maintained  their  position  with 
a  steadiness  that  could  not  be  subdued  ;  and  in  a  last 
effort  for  victory,  Washington's  horse  being  killed,  he 
became  entangled,  as  he  fell,  in  the  ranks  of  the 
enemy,  and    being   unable  to  extricate  himself,  was 

"  This  distinguished  officer  is  still  spoken  of  in  St  John's  with  great 
respect.  He  was  the  foe  to  oppression,  and  guardian  of  the  unfortunate.  He 
suffered  no  severities  within  the  reach  of  his  command ;  nor  withheld  his 
beneficence  where  the  power  appeared  of  doing  good,  even  from  the  fami- 
lies of  his  most  decided  opponents.  He  fell  a  martyr  to  disease,  and  is  buried 
on  the  plantation  of  Daniel  Ravenel.  An  old  Negro,  still  living,  has  often 
pointed  out  his  grave,  and  added,  this  is  the  officer  who  turned  aside  the 
soldier's  bayonet,  who  would  have  killed  Colonel  Washington,  when  he  fell 
at  Eutaw.  The  fact  which,  I  doubt  not,  gives  him  new  claims  to  our  ad- 
miration. The  Commanding  Officer  had  his  grave  enclosed,  and  a  cypres.s 
board,  (which  still  remains)  placed  at  his  bead^  with  the  following  modest 
inscription : 

John  Majoribanks,  Esquire, 
Late.  Major  in  the  I9lh  Regt.  Inf.  and  commanding  a  flank  bcltciUon 
of  kis  Majesty's  army,  Obit.  22d  Oct.  1781. 


r^  WASHINGTON. 

bayoneted  and  taken.  The  intrepid  conduct  of  his 
gallant  followers,  cannot  be  too  highly  extolled. — 
Captain  Watts,  the  second  in  command,  the  Lieute- 
nants Stuart,  King,  Gordon,  and  Simons,  were 
wounded  ;  Mr.  Carlisle,  a  volunteer,  killed,  and  half 
of  the  men  destroyed.  After  which,  the  residue  were 
drawn  oflf  by  Captain  Parsons,  the  only  officer  who 
escaped  without  injury.  The  action  at  the  Eutaws, 
was  the  last  in  which  Lieutenant  Colonel  Washington 
was  engaged.  Remaining  a  prisoner  to  the  conclusion 
of  the  war,  he  married  a  lady,  equally  distinguished 
by  her  virtues  and  accomplishments,  and  settled  in 
South  Carolina.  Possessing  a  very  considerable  pro- 
perty, he  indulged  in  unbounded  hospitality,  receiving, 
with  affectionate  attention,  his  military  associates,  and 
maintaining  the  respectable  character  of  a  liberal  and 
independent  country  gentleman. 

The  eclat  of  his  military  services  occasioned  his 
immediate  election  to  the  Legislature,  where  it  soon 
became  evident,  that  he  possessed  every  requisite  to 
render  himself  as  much  distinguished  in  Council,  as 
he  had  been  in  the  field.  His  intuitive  knowledge 
was  great ;  and  by  his  assidious  application  to  business, 
received  daily  improvement.  His  friends,  who  clearly 
perceived  that  he  possessed  far  greater  claims  to  ta- 
lent, than  his  extreme  modesty  would  admit,  were 
anxious  to  place  him  at  the  head  of  the  State  Go- 
vernment ;  bnt,  it  was  in  vain  that  they  essayed  to 
excite  him  to  become  a  candidate  for  the  office.  "  My 
ambition  is,"  he  constantly  said,  "  to  devote  my  ser- 
vices to  my  country  ;  but,  there  are  two  powerful 
reasons  which  render  it  impossible  for  me  to  aspire  to 
the  honour  of  governing  the  State.  The  first  is,  that 
till  lately  I  was  a  stranger  among  you  ;  and,  in  my 
opinion,  the  Chief  Executive  Officer  should  be  a  na- 
tive of  the  land  on  which  he  presides.  Nor  would  I, 
on  the  score  of  qualification,  put  my  talents  in  com- 


WASHINGTON.  73 

petition  with  those  of  many  able  men,  who  are  am- 
bitious of  the  hononr.  My  other  reason  is  insur- 
mountable. If  I  were  elected  Governor,  I  should  be 
obliged  to  make  a  speech  ;  and  I  know,  that  in  doing 
so,  without  gainins  credit  in  your  estimation,  the 
consciousness  of  inferiority,  would  humble  me  in  my 
own — T  cannot  make  a  speech.^^ 

A  report  having  reached  Head-Quarters,  that  the 
author  of  "  Common  Sense'''  was  in  distress  at  Phila- 
delphia, it  was  no  sooner  communicated  to  Lieutenant 
Colonel  Washington,  than  he  said  to  a  friend — '*  I 
cannot  bear  the  idea,  that  the  man,  who,  by  his  writ- 
ings, has  so  highly  benefited  my  country,  should  feel 
the  want  of  bread,  while  the  power  is  mine  to  relieve 
him ;"  and  without  a  sentence  more  on  the  subject, 
by  the  first  post,  remitted  him  a  bill  for  one  hundred 
guineas. 

In  the  year  1810,  I  was  appointed  by  the  Society 
of  the  Cincinnati,  to  pronounce  an  Eulogy,  expressive 
of  their  high  sense  of  his  meritorious  services,  and  of 
their  deep  regret  on  the  loss  sustained  by  his  death. 
Circumstances  compelled  me  to  decline  the  honour, 
though  I  have  always  considered  it  as  the  highest  com- 
pliment that  could  have  been  paid  me  by  my  fellow- 
soldiers,  that  they  deemed  me  worthy,  to  detail  the 
services,  and  celebrate  the  virtues  of  so  good  a 
man. 

Colonel  Washington  was  tall  and  majestic  in  person, 
exhibiting  a  manly  figure,  with  every  indication  of 
superior  strength,  and  corresponding  activity.  His 
countenance  was  composed,  and  rather  of  a  serious 
cast,  but  evinced  the  benevolence  that  characterized 
all  his  actions. 

The  sketch  which  I  have  given  of  his  military 
career,  falls,  in  my  own  estimation,  far  short  of  the 
encomiums  which  are  his  due.  To  compensate  my 
readers  for  the  insufficiency  of  the  attempt,  I  offer,  as 

10 


74  WASHINGTON. 

a  treat,  the  Resolutions  published  by  order  of  the 
Revolution  Society,  on  the  melancholy  occurrence  of 
his  death. 


RESOLUTIONS    OF    THE    REVOLUTION    SOCIETY    OP    SOUTH-CAROLINA. 

The  American  Revolution  Society,  convened  on  the  occasion  of 
the  recent  death  of  Lieutenant  Colonel  Washington,  feel  themselves 
promptcil  1)}'  duty  and  sensibility,  to  give  utterance  to  their  sentiments 
upon  that  calamitous  event.  They  who  knew  the  deceased,  (and  to 
many  of  this  Society,  of  which  he  was  a  member,  he  was  intimately 
known,)  could  not  but  have  remarked  in  him,  a  felicitous  combination 
of  mind  and  heart,  rarely  united,  which  qualified  him  to  be  eminently 
distinguished  as  a  soldier,  and  esteemed  as  a  citizen  :  which  produced 
in  him  great  virtues  untarnished  by  the  association  of  correspondent 
vices ;  which  rendered  him  modest  without  timidity,  generous  with- 
out extravagance,  brave  without  rashness,  and  disinterested  without 
austerity;  which  imparted  firmness  to  his  conduct,  and  mildness  to 
his  manners;  solidity  to  his  judgment,  and  boldness  to  his  achieve- 
ments ;  which  armed  him  with  an  equanimity  unalterable  by  the 
frowns  of  adversity,  or  the  smiles  of  fortune ;  and  steadiness  of  soul 
not  to  be  subdued  by  the  disasters  of  defeat,  or  elated  by  the  triumphs 
of  victory.  When  the  Society  also  recollects,  that  he  was  a  gallant 
soldier,  enterprising  without  ambition,  encountering  danger,  not  for 
his  own  renown,  but  for  his  country's  independence ;  that  he  was  a 
patriot,  inflexible  without  obstinacy,  warm  without  passion,  and 
zealous  without  bigotry ;  that  in  private  life  he  was  useful  without 
parade,  liberal  without  ostentation,  amiable  without  weakness,  and 
honourable  without  fastidiousness;  they  cannot  permit  him  to  descend 
to  the  silent  tomb,  and  refrain  from  expressing  some  mark  of  reve- 
rence and  affection  for  his  worth  ;  however  frail  and  evanescent  these 
testimonials  may  be,  it  will  nevertheless  manifest  that  they  honoured 
the  deceased  when  living,  and  that  they  cherish  the  remembrance  of 
his  virtues  and  services  after  death. 

Therefore,  Resolved,  That  the  members  of  this  Society  do  wear 
crape  on  their  left  arm  for  thirty  days,  as  a  tribute  of  respect  to  the 
memory  General  William  Washington. 


WASHINGTON.  76 

Resolved,  That  the  President  be  requested  to  transmit  a  copy  of 
these  resolutions  to  Mrs.  Washington,  and  to  express  to  her  the  deep 
regret  of  this  Society  for  the  great  loss  she  has  sustained. 

Resolved,  That  the  foregoing  resolutions  be  published  in  the  Ga- 
zettes of  this  city. 

By  Order  of  the  Society, 

William  Grafts,  President. 
John  Cripps,  Treasurer  and  Secretary. 


GENERAL  GREENE. 

To  distinguish  with  commendation,  equal  to  his 
merits,  so  good  and  great  a  man,  is,  confessedly,  be- 
yond my  ability.  Having  been  honoured  by  his 
friendship,  and  a  member  of  his  military  family,  the 
opportunity  I  enjoyed,  of  taking  a  more  critical  view 
of  his  character,  strongly  impresses  the  belief,  that  it 
was  exalted  beyond  the  reach  of  adequate  praise.  In 
presenting  it  to  view,  an  opportunity  will  be  afforded 
me,  of  exhibiting  the  sentiments  of  more  competent 
judges,  while  I  reserve  to  myself,  the  privilege  of 
asking — "  Whether  such  multiplied  evidence,  as  I 
shall  produce  of  private  worth,  and  public  utility,  of 
captivating  virtues,  and  superior  talents,  do  not  give 
to  General  Greene,  an  exalted  claim  to  superior  intel- 
ligence .?" 

Great  is  my  disappointment,  that  a  gentleman, 
admirably  well  qualified  to  do  justice  to  his  memory 
— a  soldier  who  had  served  under  him — a  friend, 
whom  he  loved,  after  having  made  considerable  ad- 
vances in  the  delineation  of  his  life  and  character, 
withholds  it  from  the  public.  Judge  Pendleton,  of 
New  York,  to  whom  I  allude,  shared  with  General 
Greene,  in  all  the  dangers  and  difficulties  of  the 
Southern  War,  and  had  daily  opportunity  of  witness- 


7^  GREENE. 

ing  the  developement  and  exercise  of  those  brilliant 
talents,  which  caused  him,  like  the  Great  Frederick, 
"  to  shine  with  greatest  lustre,  when  hardest  prest ;" 
and,  ultimately,  to  establish  the  liberty  and  indepen- 
dence of  a  large  portion  of  the  United  States,  on  a 
basis  that  can  never  be  shaken. 

To  speak  of  his  military  capacity — We  are  told, 
that,  on  his  very  first  appearance  in  the  camp  at  Cam- 
bridge, from  the  ardor  of  his  zeal,  unremitted  activity, 
and  strict  attention  to  every  duty,  he  was  pronounced, 
by  soldiers  of  distinction,*  a  man  of  real  military 
genius. 

"  His  knowledge  (said  General  Knox  to  a  distin- 
guished citizen  of  South  Carolina,t)  is  intuitive.  He 
came  to  us,  the  rawest,  and  most  untutored  being 
I  ever  met  with  ;  but,  in  less  than  twelve  months,  he 
was  equal,  in  military  knowledge,  to  any  General 
Officer  in  the  army,  and  very  superior  to  most  of  them." 

The  British  officer,  who  opposed  him  in  Jersey, 
writes — "  Greene  is  as  dangerous  as  Washington  ;  he 
is  vigilant,  enterprising,  and  full  of  resources.  With 
but  little  hope  of  gaining  any  advantage  over  him,  I 
never  feel  secure  when  encamped  in  his  neighbour- 
hood."! 

To  speak  of  his  disinterestedness.  General  Wash- 
ington gives  the  following  honourable  testimony  of 
his  character : — "  There  is  no  Officer  in  the  army 
more  sincerely  attached  to  the  interests  of  his  country 
than  General  Greene.  Could  he  but  promote  these 
interests  in  the  character  of  a  corporal,  he  would  ex- 
change, without  a  murmur,  his  epaulette  for  the  knot. 
For,  although  he  is  not  without  ambition,  that  am- 
bition has  not  for  its  object,  the  highest  rank,  so  much 
as  the  greatest  good." 

In  com{)liment  to  his  brilliant  successes,  the  Chi- 
valier  de  la  Luzerne,  the  Minister  of  France,  who,  as 

"Colonel  Pickering  and  otliers.     t  Judge  Desaussure.      }.  Lord  Cornwalli.^. 


GREENE.  7t 

a  Knight  of  Malta,  must  be  considered  as  a  competent 
judge  of  military  merit,  thus  speaks  of  him : — "  Other 
Generals  subdue  their  enemy  by  the  means  with  which 
their  country,  or  sovereign  furnishes  them  ;  but, 
Greene  appears  to  subdue  his  enemy  by  his  own 
means.  He  commenced  his  campaign,  without  either 
an  army,  provisions,  or  military  stores.  He  has  asked 
for  nothing  since  ;  and  yet,  scarcely  a  post  arrives 
from  the  South,  that  does  not  bring  intelligence  of 
some  new  advantage  gained  over  the  foe.  He  con- 
quers by  magic.  History  furnishes  no  parallel  to 
this." 

Previous  to  his  appointment  to  the  command  of  the 
Southern  Army,  he  had  acquired  a  considerable  share 
of  professional  reputation.  The  Commander  in  Chief, 
recommending  him  to  Congress,  says — "  He  is  an 
Oflicer,  in  whose  abilities,  fortitude  and  integrity,  from 
a  long  and  intimate  experience  of  him,  I  have  the 
most  entire  confidence." 

He  had  long  been  his  intimate  associate  ;  and  it  has 
often  been  said,  that  he  so  highly  approved  the  excel- 
lence of*  his  heart,  and  was  so  fully  satisfied  of  his 
pre-eminent  talents,  and  ability  to  direct  the  operations 
of  an  army,  that,  in  the  event  of  his  own  death,  he 
strongly  urged  that  he  should  be  advanced  to  the 
supreme  command. 

I  shall  now,  more  particularly,  detail  his  services  ; 
for  in  all  that  regards  so  good  and  so  great  a  man,  I 
consider  every  circumstance  of  importance.  General 
Greene  contributed  to  the  security  of  the  army  in  the 
retreat  through  the  Jerseys.  He  displayed  tiie  best 
conduct  and  most  distinguished  intrepidity  at  Trenton, 
Brandywine,  Germantown,  and  Monmouth.  He  con- 
ducted the  retreat  at  Rhode  Island,  with  consummate 
skill,  after  having  vainly  endeavoured  to  procure  the 
co-operation  of  the  fleet  of  D'Estaug.  Had  his 
solicitation  been  successful,  it  must  have  placed  the 


7g  GREENE. 

entire  force  of  the  enemy  in  ourliands.  But,  it  was 
in  consenting  to  be  placed  at  the  head  of  the  Quarter 
Master  General's  Department,  conformably  to  the 
earnest  wishes  of  the  Commander  in  Chief,  that  he 
rendered  incalculable  benefit  to  his  country.  His 
natural  disposition  led  him  rather  to  seek  for  laurels  in 
the  field  of  battle,  than  to  the  safer  duty  of  providing 
resources  for  others.  But,  considering  the  benefit 
that  would  result  to  his  country,  as  superior  to  every 
selfish  feeling,  he  uttered  no  complaint  ;  and  so  com- 
pletely justified  the  expectations  formed  of  his  capacity 
and  persevering  industry,  that,  when  retiring  from  the 
station.  General  Washington  said  to  him — "  You  have 
rendered  the  path  of  duty  in  the  Quarter  Master's 
Department,  so  broad  and  plain,  that  it  will  not  be 
easy  for  your  successors  to  mistake  it." 

On  his  arrival  in  Carolina,  he  found  a  country  every 
where  marked  with  outrage,  desolation,  and  blood, 
and  an  enemy  bold  in  enterprise,  and  flushed  with 
success,  prepared  to  crush  him.  The  prospect  was 
truly  appalling.  The  remnant  of  the  army,  delivered 
up  by  Gates,  consisted  not  only  of  inferior  numbers, 
but  was  mostly  composed  of  militia,  dispirited  by  mis- 
fortune, and  entirely  destitute  of  every  adequate  means 
to  sanction  the  hope  of  effectual  resistance.  Their 
provisions  were  exhausted — the  comfort  of  decent 
clothing  was  unknown — -and  the  want  of  arms  and 
ammunition  so  great  and  deplorable,  as  to  render  im- 
practicable, every  attemi-t  to  commence  active  opera- 
tions. Yet,  beneath  such  an  accumulation  of  difficulty, 
his  resolution  sunk  not.  His  immediate  care  was,  to 
obtain  a  supply  of  subsistence  and  ammunition,  to 
increase  the  comfort  of  his  troops,  and  to  i)erfect  their 
discipline.  This  he  so  completely  effected,  that  in  a 
very  short  time,  the  condition  of  the  army  was  so 
much  ameliorated,  that  the  recollection  of  misfortune 
was  lost  :    and   with    the  utmost  confidence  in  his 


GREENE.  79 

ability,  they  solicited  their  General  to  advance,  de- 
claring, that  under  his  guidance,  they  considered  victory 
as  secure.  But,  though  delighted  with  this  propitious 
change  in  the  disposition  of  his  troops,  his  future 
hopes  and  high  confidence,  were  derived  from  the 
known  characters  of  the  Officers  under  his  command. 
Aided  by  the  zeal,  activity,  enterprise,  and  varied  ta- 
lents of  Huger,  Morgan,  Williams,  Carringlon,  How- 
ard, Washington,  and  Lee,  in  the  regular  Line,  and  of 
Sumter,  Marion,  Pictkens,  and  Davie,  the  Partisan 
Commanders  of  the  militia,  he  looked  forward,  with  no 
presmnptuous  hope,  to  the  certainty  of  success.  It  is 
a  tribute  justly  due  to  their  merits,  to  say,  that  he  was 
particularly  fortunate  in  the  choice  of  the  Aids-de- 
Cam|),  then  serving  in  his  family.  Burnett,  Morris, 
Hyrne,  Pierce,  Pendleton,  and  Shubrick,  were  Offi- 
cers of  no  conmion  character,  and  daily  evinced,  that 
they  were  worthy  of  the  honour  bestowed  on  them.^ 


* 


*  In  addition  to  the  advantages  accruing  to  General  Greene,  from  the  ta- 
lents of  the  distinguished  characters  attached  to  his  command,  I  consider 
him  particularly  fortunate,  while  in  active  service,  in  the  selection  he  had 
made  of  his  Aids-de-Camp.  The  attachment  to  his  person,  and  devotion  to 
bis  will,  of  Colonel  Morris,  Majors  Burnett,  Pierce,  and  HYRNE,and  Captains 
Pendleton  and  Shubrick,  while  grateful  and  flattering  to  himself,  he  proudly 
acknowledged  essentially  beneficial  to  the  service  ;  it  gave  energy  to  exertion, 
display  to  their  abilities,  and  caused  each,  in  succession,  to  be  honoured  with 
the  thanks  of  Congress.  To  the  watchfulness  of  Colonel  Morris,  to  whom  the 
General  was  most  sincerely  attached,  he  handsomely  acknowledged  his  se- 
curity from  captivity,  rmd,  probably,  his  escape  from  death,  at  the  battle  of 
Guilford.  BuRi<fETT  and  Pendleton,  pre-eminently  possessed  the  talents  the 
best  fitted  for  conducting  the  important  business  of  Head  Quarters.  Pierce, 
admirably  qualified  to  conciliate  all  who  apf)roached  the  General,  with  com- 
plaints or  solicitation.  He  well  knew  how  to  give  additional  sense  of  obliga- 
tion to  favours  granted,  and  parry,  without  offending,  unreasonable  requests ; 
and  even  to  give  to  direct  refusal  such  an  appearance  of  justice,  as  to  prevent 
complaint.  Hvrne  excelled  in  negotiation,  while  his  honourable  scars 
evinced,  that  he  was  no  less  bold  than  intelligent.  Shubrick  was  no  less 
distinguished:  To  convey  orders  through  every  peril — to  assail  with  the 
column  he  was  directed  to  see  advance — to  charge  with  the  troop  com- 
manded to  fall  on  the  enemy,  no  man  possessed  more  chivalric  gallantry 
than  he  did.  He  had  constantly  shown  himself  an  OflBcer  of  talent  and 
enterprise ;   and  not  only  will  his    name  be  enrolled  among  the  heroes  of 


gQ  GREENE. 

Every  necessary  preparation  being  now  made,  for 
the  commencement  of  hostilities,  General  Morgan  was 
detached  to  enter  South  Carolina,  and  take  a  position 
on  the  left  of  Cornwallis,  while  General  Greene,  at 
the  head  of  the  main  army,  moved  to  the  Cheraw 
Hills,  about  seventy  miles  to  his  right. 

It  is  not  my  intention  to  give  details  of  the  battles 
fought,  and  of  victories  gained  ;  nor  of  the  skilful 
manoeuvres  practised  to  avoid  action,  when,  conse- 
quences too  mo  nentous,  would  have  been  put  at  haz- 
ard by  defeat  ;  but,  looking  to  the  results,  I  feel  con- 
fident in  saying,  that  greater  prudence,  more  happy 
and  accurate  discernment  in  anticipating  events — more 
promptitude  to  profit  by  favourable  occurrences,  were 
never  displayed  by  any  General,  in  ancient  or  in 
modern  times,  than  by  General  Greene.     I  mention  it 

the  Revolution,  from  bis  own  merits,  but  to  future  generations,  shine 
with  additional  lustre,  from  the  pre-eminent  intrepidity  of  his  gallant  offspring. 
Six  sons  has  he  given  to  the  service  of  his  country.  The  two  eldest  died 
before  the  aggi-essions  of  an  enemy,  gave  opportunity  to  evince  their 
devotion  to  their  native  land.  Of  Captain  John  Templar  Shubrick,  how 
shall  I  speak  ? — How,  in  terms  sufficiently  energetic,  express  my  admiration  of 
his  exalted  worth  ?  The  brave,  the  heroic  youth,  who,  thrice  in  the  space  of 
twelve  months,  saw  the  flag  of  Britain  floating  beneath  the  banners  of  his 
country — "  the  Lion  prostrate  beneath  the  basilisk  glance  of  the  triumphant 
Eagle."  His  merits  are  beyond  the  reach  of  encomium.  Imagination  may 
lead  us  to  conceive,  of  what  might  have  been  expected  from  him — but,  alas  ' 

"  He  is  gone — and  idolatrous  fancif 

Must  sanctify  his  relics." 
The  share  which  Lieutenant  William  Shubrick  had,  in  the  capture  of  the 
Cyane  and  Levant,  gave  ample  testimony  cf  his  merits.  Lieutenant  Edward 
Shubrick  was  less  fortunate  in  the  opportunity  of  displaying  his  gallantry,  but 
not  less  eager  to  meet  the  foe ;  and  in  different  cruizes  under  Commodore 
RoDGERs,  did  an  infinity  of  mischief  to  their  trade,  conveying  many  valuable 
prizes,  with  safety,  into  port.  Irvine  Shubrick,  the  sixth  brother,  began  his 
career  under  the  cloud  of  misfortune  He  was  captured  on  board  the  Presi- 
dent, but  lost  no  honour  ;  and  had  the  satisfaction  of  perceiving,  by  the  com- 
plete discomfiture  of  the  Endymion,  that  had  the  contending  force  been  more 
equal,  another  naval  victory  had  graced  the  annals  of  his  country.  From 
youths  of  such  promise,  what  may  not  be  expected,  should  war  be  again  the 
portion  of  our  country. 


GREENE.  ^ 

to  the  honour  of  the  gentlemen  of  his  family,  who 
were  present  at  the  battle  of  Guilford,  that  imme- 
diately previous  to  its  commencement,  they  waited 
upon  him  in  a  body,  earnestly  to  solicit — "  That  he 
would  put  their  lives  at  every  hazard  ;  but  that  he 
would  be  careful  of  his  own,  as  the  service  would  not 
suffer  by  their  loss,  but  that  his  fall  would  not  only  be 
fatal  to  the  army,  but,  in  all  probability,  greatly  retard, 
if  not  destroy,  every  hope  of  securing  the  indepen- 
dency of  the  South."  His  ardour,  however,  was  not 
to  be  restrained.  The  exposure  of  his  person  was 
his  least  consideration  ;  and  it  had  nearly  cost  him  his 
liberty  ;  for  a  party  of  the  British  Guards,  pursuing 
the  flying  militia,  passed  within  a  very  few  yards  of 
him,  but  not  till  tiie  warning  voice  of  an  Aid-de- 
Camp,  had  given  him  time  to  place  himself  in  security. 
In  writing,  shortly  after,  to  Mrs.  Greene,  he  says — 
"  To  my  friend  Morris,  1  am  indebted  for  my  safety." 

The  loss  of  cannon,  in  action,  has  always  been  con- 
sidered as  the  most  certain  testimony  of  defeat. — 
General  Greene  felt  this  ;  and  when  compelled  to 
retire  before  the  enemy,  at  Hobkirk's  Hill,  finding  the 
horses  belonging  to  the  artillery,  too  much  crippled  to 
remove  the  pieces  brought  into  the  field,  dismounted 
himself,  and  putting  his  hand  to  the  drag-ropes,  gave 
such  animation  to  the  exertions  of  the  men,  that  they 
were  carried  off  in  safety. 

And  here  I  would  mention,  that  his  military  occu- 
pations had  made  but  little  alteration  in  his  principal 
habits,  and  that,  in  simplicity  of  manners,  he  was  still 
a  Quaker. 

Exertion  being  imperiously  called  for,  after  the  bat- 
tle of  Guilford,  and  his  own,  as  well  as  the  wounded 
of  the  British,  who  had  been  left  and  recommended  to 
his  humanity,  impeding  his  movements,  h(?,  in  the 
style  the  best  suited  to  his  views,  so  pathetically  ad- 
dressed the  Society  of  Friends,  in  the  neigiibourhood, 

11 


82  GREENE. 

that  they  immediately  tendered  their  services,  to  give 
relief  to  the  afflicted,  and  left  him  at  full  liberty  to 
pursue  the  retiring  enemy. 

One  talent  he  possessed,  in  the  highest  degree,  bene- 
ficial to  the  service — an  accurate  discernment  of  the 
capacities  and  peculiar  traits  of  genius,  cliaracterizing 
the  Officers  under  his  command,  and  of  applying  them 
in  the  manner  in  which  they  promised  to  produce  the 
best  effects.  Lee,  he  considered  his  e//e — fVashington 
his  arm ;  now,  although  1  have  no  doubt,  but  that 
Washini^ton  would  have  succeeded  in  conducting  the 
sieges  of  the  posts  held  by  the  enemy,  (for  he  had 
shown  at  Rugely's,  that  he  was  not  deficient  in  strata- 
gem ;)  and  am  perfectly  convinced,  that  Lee  would 
have  headed  a  charge  of  cavalry  with  the  gallantry  of 
a  hero,  yet,  it  will  scarcely  be  denied,  but  that  the  for- 
mer was  more  in  his  proper  sphere,  in  causing  the 
enemy  to  fly  before  the  vigour  of  his  attacks;  the  last, 
in  the  exercise  of  the  fertile  expedients  that  produced 
the  end  to  be  accomplished,  more  certainly,  than  if 
attempted  by  force  and  violence.  To  Sumter  and 
Pickens,  who  commanded  a  bold  and  hardy  race  of 
men,  who  had  never  submitted,  was  peculiarly  in- 
trusted, the  conduct  of  the  enterprises  where  bold  and 
impetuous  attacks  were  the  most  essential  to  success. 
To  Marion,  was  assigned,  the  more  difficult  duty  of 
conciliating  the  disaffected  ;  and  by  the  gentleness  and 
suavity  of  his  manners,  and  perfect  knowledge  of  the 
human  heart,  reconciling  to  themselves,  and  to  their 
country,  the  men  who,  by  the  delusion  of  fair  pro- 
mises, or  threats  of  violence,  had  yielded  temporary 
obedience  to  the  enemy.  Not,  however,  confining 
the  abilities  of  so  distinguished  a  soldier,  to  such 
views  alone,  but  encouraging  him  to  pursue  that  mode 
of  warfare  so  happily  adai)ted  to  his  genius — harassing 
detachments — cutting  off  supplies — exciting  peri)etual 
alarm — and  striking,  with  effect,  the  points  where  he 


GREENE.  83 

was  least  expected,  till  his  name  became  so  formi- 
dable, that,  to  pass  the  limits  of  encampment,  was 
considered  the  immediate  prelude  to  death  or  cai)tivity. 
But,  in  no  instance,  did  he  show  greater  accuracy  of 
judgment,  than  in  the  appointment  of  Colonel  Otho 
H.  Williams,  to  the  command  of  the  light  troops,  who 
were  to  cover  his  retreat  into  Virginia  ;  for  never  was 
man  better  suited  to  the  hai)py  discharge  of  such  a 
trust.  Perfect  in  military  science,  he  kept  an  ardent 
temper  under  strict  control  ;  was  vigilant  and  circum- 
spect ;  always  prepared  to  profit  by  occasion,  but 
never  to  risk  for  slight  advantage,  or  endanger  the 
security  he  was  strictly  commanded  to  maintain. 

Of  General  Greene's  literary  talents,  I  have  little 
to  say.  His  early  education  had  not  been  conducted 
on  an  extensive  scale  ;  the  knowledge  which  he  pos- 
sessed, was  from  the  inspiration  of  natural  genius, 
and  an  uncommon  strength  of  mind.  When  called 
upon  to  speak,  or  write  with  promptitude,  on  a  subject 
that  interested  him,  his  ideas  were  sublime,  his  ex- 
pressions forcible,  and  well  adapted  to  the  subject  ; 
but,  when  he  aimed  at  elegance  of  style,  and  to  give 
to  his  correspondence  the  beauty  of  well-turned 
periods,  his  compositions  were  of  a  different  cast. 

When  the  mutiny  of  the  cavalry  took  place  on  the 
Hills  of  Santee,  while  Lieutenant  Merri weather,  who 
brought  the  intelligence,  and  waited  his  dis|)atches  to 
return,  was  snatching  a  hasty  meal,  I  sat  by  the  side 
of  the  General,  transcribing  a  copy  of  his  address  to 
the  revolters,  as  quickly  as  the  sheets  on  which  it  was 
written,  were  thrown  to  me.  At  the  conclusion,  he 
left  me,  more  forcible  to  impress  on  the  Lieutenant, 
the  necessity  of  despatch,  to  overtake  the  corps,  to 
read  to  them  his  address,  and  to  endeavour  to  bring 
them  back  to  their  duty.  In  the  interim,  one  of  the 
most  enlightened  Patriots,  and  distinguished  Officers 
of  our  army,  entered  the  apartment.     Delighted,  my- 


84  GREENE. 

self,  I  asked  his  opinion  of  this  hasty  production,  and 
was  gratified  to  hear  him  declare : — "  That  he  had 
never  heard  an  address  better  calculated  to  produce  the 
effect  that  might  be  hoped  from  it."  The  General's 
heart  had  been  interested — he  felt  the  disgrace  that 
would  tarnish  the  laurels  so  honourably  attained  ;  and 
writing  under  the  influence  of  strong  emotions,  wrote 
well.  But,  as  I  said  before,  whenever  he  laboured  to 
excel,  he  never  succeeded. 

To  the  gentlemen  of  his  family,  he  was  afTable  and 
kind,  inspiring  them  with  the  warmest  affection  for 
his  person,  and  admiration  of  his  fame. 

By  his  Officers  he  was  beloved — by  his  Soldiers, 
idolized.  They  knew  him  brave,  and  believed  him 
invincible. 

Against  such  a  man,  the  British  Commander  of  the 
South,  General  Leslie,  saw  the  folly  of  contention  ; 
and  till  the  evacuation  of  Charleston,  contented  him- 
self, for  many  months,  to  remain,  tranquilly,  within 
his  lines. 


OFFICERS  WHO  FELL  IN  THE  SOUTHERN  WAR. 


It  is  impossible  for  me  to  notice,  with  just  estimation  of  their  talents 
and  patriotism,  the  distinguished  military  characters  who  fell  pre- 
viously to  my  return  to  my  native  country  and  connection  with  the 
army.  On  the  authority  of  others  it  is  still  delightful  to  record 
them ;  and  where  I  fail  to  bestow  the  due  meed  of  praise,  I  trust  it 
will  be  attributed  to  the  true  cause, — the  want  of  sufficient  informal 
tion  for  the  proper  performance  of  the  duty. 


COLONEL  OWEN  ROBERTS. 

The  untimely  fate  of  Colonel  Owen  Roberts,  who 
fell  at  Stono,  was  the  cause  of  universal  regret.  He 
was  an  inflexible  Patriot,  an  excellent  disciplinarian, 
and  an  enthusiast  in  pursuit  of  military  fame.  His 
son,  who  was  in  the  action,  hearing  of  his  misfortune, 
hastened  to  him.  The  expiring  veteran,  perceiving  in 
his  countenance  the  liveliest  sorrow,  addressed  him 
with  great  composure  : — "  I  rejoice,  my  boy,  once 
again  to  see  and  to  embrace  you.  Receive  this  sword, 
which  has  never  been  tarnished  by  dishonour,  and 
let  it  not  be  inactive,  while  the  liberty  of  your  country 
is  endangered.  Take  my  last  adieu — accept  my 
blessing,  and  return  to  your  duty  !" 


S6  LAURENS. 


LIEUT.  COL.  JOHN  LAURENS. 

It  is  with  peculiar  delight,  that  I  mention,  among 
the  most  distinguished  worthies  of  the  Revolution, 
Lieutenant  Colonel  John  Laurens;  for  no  man  more 
highly  merited  the  gratitude  of  his  country,  and  by 
none  was  I  ever  so  highly  befriended. 

His  general  character  is  so  well  known,  and  has 
been  so  ably  depicted  by  others,  that  I  have  little  to 
say  that  can  increase  its  celebrity.  His  extensive 
information,  and  classical  knowledge,  obtained  the 
respect  of  the  learned.  His  polite  and  easy  behaviour, 
insured  distinction  in  every  polished  society.  The 
warmth  of  his  heart,  gained  the  aifection  of  his  friends, 
his  sincerity  their  confidence  and  esteem.  His  pa- 
triotic integrity  commanded  the  veneration  of  his  coun- 
trymen— his  intrepidity  their  unlimited  applause.  An 
insult  to  his  friend,  he  regarded  as  a  wound  to  his  own 
honour.  Such  an  occurrence  led  him  to  engage  in  a 
personal  contest  with  General  Charles  Lee,  who  had 
spoken  disrespectfully  of  General  Washington.  The 
veteran,  who  was  wounded  on  the  occasion,  being 
asked — "  How  Laurens  had  conducted  himself  ?" 
replied — "  1  could  have  hugged  the  noble  boy,  he 
pleased  me  so." 

His  gallantry,  in  action,  was  highly  characteristic  of 
his  love  of  fame.  The  post  of  danger  was  his  favou- 
rite station.  Some,  indeed,  may  style  his  display  of 
intrepidity,  at  every  risk,  the  height  of  rashness. — 
Strictly  speaking,  it  was  so.  But,  at  the  commence- 
ment of  the  war,  when  the  British  Officers  were  per- 
suaded, or  affected  to  believe,  that  every  American 
was  a  coward,  such  total  disregard  of  personal  safety, 
on  the  part  of  Laurens,  such  display  of  chivalric  in- 
trepidity, that  equally  excited  their  surprise  and  admi- 


LAITRENS.  87 

jation,  was,  essentially,  beneficial  to  our  cause.     To 
deny   that  his  anxiety  to  meet  the  foe,  led   him  too 
often  into  unnecessary  peril,  is  impossible.     I    had, 
roo  often,  cause  to  see  and  to  lament  it.     Let  one 
instance  suffice  to  prove  it.     A  Centinel  on  the  bank 
of  Ashley  River,  op|)osite  to  Dorchester,  perceiving  a 
Red  Coat   moving  through   the  brush  wood    on  the 
other   shore,    gave  the  alarm  that  the  enemy  were 
without   their   lines.      This   being  communicated  to 
Lieutenani  Colonel  Laurens,  a  troop  of  dragoons,  and 
a  company  of  infantry  of  the  Legion,  were  ordered  to 
cross  the  river  and  reconnoitre.     But,  the  rapidity  of 
the  stream   determined   Captain    O'Neal,   who  com- 
manded, to  wait  till  a  boat,   which  had  been  sent  for, 
should  arrive.     In   the  interim,   Lieutenant  Colonel 
Laurens  gal]oi)ped  up   and  demanded  with  warmth, 
"  Why  this  halt.  Captain  ? — were  not  orders  given  to 
cross  ?"     "  Yes,  Colonel,  but  look  to  the  current,  and 
judge   if  it  be  practicable."     "  This   is  no  time  for 
argument,"  rejoined  Laurens.     "  You,  who  are  brave 
men,  follow  me."     Saying  this,    he  plunged  into  the 
river,    but   was   instantaneously  obliged   lo    quit    his 
horse,  and  with  extreme  difficulty  reached  the  oppo- 
site shore.     O'lNeai,  than  whom   a  braver  man  did 
not  exist,  indignant  at  the  speech  of  Laurens,  replied, 
"  You  shall  see,  sir,  that  there  are  men  here  as  cou- 
rageous as  yourselj,"  and  at   the   head  of  his  troop, 
entered  the  river.     I  cannot  do  justice  to  the  scene 
that  followed.     All  was  tumult  and  confusion  ;   for, 
although  no  life  was  lost,  several  of  the  men  were  so 
nearly  drowned,  that  it  became  necessary  to  use  every 
means  to  make   them    disgorge  the  water   they  had 
swallowed  ;  and   all  were  so  much  exhausted,  that  a 
temporary  halt   was  indispensably  necessary.       The 
infantry,   by  the  aid  of  plank,   and  large  doors  torn 
from  a  neighbouring  ware-house,  passed  over  with  less 
difficulty.      In   the  mean   time,    Lieutenant  Colonel 


88  LAURENS. 

Lanrens,  attended  by  Messrs.  Ralph  and  Walter  Izard, 
and  Mr.  Wainwright,  who  ever  accom|)anied  him  as 
his  Aids,  hastened  to  the  spot  where  the  British  regi- 
mental had  been  seen.  It  then  was  found,  that  a 
military  coat  had  been  hung  up  in  a  tree,  by  a  soldier 
who  had  been  whipped  and  drummed  out  of  the  64th 
Regiment,  for  drunkenness,  and  whose  lacerated  back 
would  admit  of  no  covering. 

The  exposure  of  so  many  valuable  lives,  connected 
with  other  causes,  induced  the  Officers  of  the  Legion, 
at  an  after  period,  to  resign  their  commissions  rather 
than  serve  under  Laurens. 

lb  speak  more  particularly  of  his  military  achieve- 
ments. His  first  essay  in  arms  was  at  Brandywine. 
At  the  battle  of  Germantown,  he  exhibited  prodigies 
of  valour,  in  attempting  to  expel  the  enemy  from 
Chew's  house,  and  was  severely  wounded.  He  was 
engaged  at  Monmouth,  and  greatly  increased  his  repu- 
tation at  Rhode  Island.  At  Coosa whatcliie,  defending 
the  pass  with  a  handful  of  men,  against  the  whole 
force  of  Provost,  he  was  again  wounded,  and  was 
probably  indebled  for  his  life  to  the  gallantry  of 
Captain  Wigg,  who  gave  him  his  horse  to  carry  him 
from  the  field,  when  incapable  of  moving,  his  own 
having  been  shot  under  him.  He  headed  the  light 
infantry,  and  was  among  the  first  to  mount  the  British 
lines  at  Savannah — displayed  the  greatest  activity  and 
courage  during  the  siege  of  Charleston — entered  vvitit 
the  forlorn  ho|)e,  the  British  redoubt  carried  by  storm 
at  York  Town,  and  received  with  his  own  hand  the 
})res(;nted  sword  of  the  Commander  ;  by  indeAitigable 
activity,  tiuvarted  every  effort  of  tjje  British  Garrison 
in  Charleston,  confining  them  for  upwards  of  twelve 
months,  to  the  narrow  limits  of  the  City  and  Neck, 
except  when  under  the  i)rotection  of  their  shipj)ing, 
they  indulged  in  distant  predatory  expeditions ;  and, 
unhappily,  at  the  very  close  of  the  war,  too  carelessly 


LAURENS.  89 

exposing  himself  in  a  trifling  skirmish  near  Com- 
bahee,  sealed  liis  devotion  to  his  country  in  death. 

I  consider  it  highly  to  the  honour  of  Lieutenant  Co- 
lonel Laurens,  that  when  requested  to  carry  a  message 
to  Provost,  on  his  approach  to  the  lines  of  Charleston, 
proposing,  "  neutrality  during  the  continuance  of  the 
war,"  he  declined  it  with  decision  :  "  I  will  do  any 
thing,"  said  he,  "  to  serve  my  country,  but  never  bear 
a  message  that  would  disgrace  her."  When  General 
Moultrie,  who  equally  spurned  the  idea  of  entering 
upon  terms  with  the  enemy,  declared,  in  Council, 
"  that  he  would  not  deliver  up  his  Continentals  as 
prisoners  of  war,"  Laurens  leapt  from  his  seat,  and 
exclaimed,  "'tis  a  glorious  resolve,  General;  thank 
God,  we  are  on  our  legs  again." 

But  there  is  one  service  rendered  to  his  country,  which, 
though  little  known,  entitles  him  to  its  warmest  gratitude. 
When  sent  by  Congress  to  negotiate  a  loan  from  the 
French  Government,  although  his  reception  was  favour- 
able, and  encouragement  given,  that  his  request  would 
be  granted,  yet  the  delays  perpetually  contrived  by  the 
Minister,  the  Count  de  Vergennes,  afforded  little  pros- 
pect of  immediate  success.  Convinced  that  procrasti- 
nation would  give  a  death  blow  to  Independence,  he 
resolved  in  defiance  of  all  the  etiquette  of  the  Court,  to 
make  a  personal  ai)peal  to  the  King.  Dr.  Franklin,  our 
Minister  at  Versailles,  vehemently  opposed  his  inten- 
tion ;  and  finding  Laurens  lirm  in  his  purpose,  he 
said — "  I  most  cordially  wish  you  success.  Colonel  ; 
but,  anticipate  so  different  a  result,  that  I  warn  you — 
I  wash  my  hands  of  the  consequences."  Accordingly, 
at  the  first  levee.  Colonel  Laurens,  walking  directly 
up  to  the  King,  delivered  a  memorial,  to  which  he 
solicited  his  most  serious  attention,  and  said — "  Should 
the  favour  asked  be  denied,  or  even  delayed,  there  is 
cause  to  fear,  that  the  sword  which  I  wear,  may  no 
longer  be  drawn  in   defence  of  the  liberties  of  my 

12 


90  LAURENS. 

Country,  but  be  wielded  as  a  British  subject  against 
the  monarchy  of  France."  His  decision  met  with 
the  reward  it  merited.  Apologies  were  made  for 
delays.  The  Minister  gave  his  serious  attention  to 
the  subject,  and  the  negotiation  was  crowned  with 
success. 

From  such  a  display  of  chivalric  gallantry  in  early 
life,  may  not  friendship  be  allowed  to  say,  without  the 
imputation  of  improper  partiality — To  auger  from  the 
achievements  which  the  past  had  exhibited,  had  not 
Death  stopped  the  career  of  his  glory,  he  would  have 
proved  a  model,  both  of  civil  and  military  virtue,  "  a 
mirror  by  which  our  youth  might  dress  themselves." 


SERGEANT  JASPER,  2d  Regiment. 

The  gallantry  displa)'ed  by  the  heroic  Jasper,  dur- 
ing the  battle  of  Sullivan's  Island,  cannot  be  passed 
over  in  silence.  It  has  been  frequently  recorded  ;  but 
while  T  notice  the  achievements  of  men  of  superior 
grade,  his  intrepidity,  inhanced  by  his  extreme  modesty, 
demands  my  warmest  encomium.  The  Flag  Staff  of 
the  Fort  having  been  shot  away  very  early  in  the 
action,  Jasper  leaped  down  upon  the  beach,  took  up 
the  Flag,  fixed  it  to  a  spunge  staff,  and,  regardless  of 
the  incessant  firing  of  the  shipping,  mounted  and 
planted  it  on  the  rampart. 

Governor  Rutledge,  in  testimony  of  his  admiration 
of  so  distinguished  an  act  of  heroism,  presented  him  a 
Sword,  and  offered  him  a  Commission.  The  first  he 
gratefully  accepted,  but  declined  the  last.  "  Were  1 
made  an  Officer,"  he  modestly  said,  "  my  comrades 
would  be  constantly  blushing  for  my  ignorance,  and  I 


JASPER.  91 

should  be  unhappy,  feeling  my  own  inferiority.  1 
have  no  ambition  for  higher  rank  than  that  of  a 
Sergeant." 

Through  every  subsequent  period  of  the  war,  his 
conduct  was  exemplary ;  but,  in  the  details  which  I 
have  seen,  carries  too  much  the  air  of  romance,  to  be 
dwelt  upon.  He  was  a  perfect  Proteus,  in  ability  to 
alter  his  appearance  ;  perpetually  entering  the  camp 
of  the  enemy,  without  detection,  and  invariably  re- 
turning to  his  own,  with  soldiers  he  had  seduced,  or 
prisoners  he  had  captured. 

During  the  attack  at  Savannah,  he  appeared  at  the 
head  of  the  assailants,  he  seized  the  colours  of  his 
regiment,  which  had  fallen  from  the  hands  of  the  Lieu- 
tenant who  bore  them  ;  but  receiving,  himself,  a  mor- 
tal wound,  returned  them,  and  retiring,  but  reached 
the  American  encampment  to  expire, 


WILMOTT  AND  MOORE. 

A  few  days  previous  to  the  evacuation  of  Charles- 
ton, a  very  rash  expedition,  suggested  by  Colonel 
Kosciusko,  occasioned  the  loss  of  Captain  Wilmott 
and  Lieutenant  Moore,  two  of  the  most  distinguished 
Partisans  in  the  service.  The  object  was,  to  surprise 
a  party  of  wood-cutters  from  Fort  Johnson,  working 
in  view  of  the  Garrison  of  Charleston.  So  much 
was  the  accuracy  of  the  information  doubted,  that 
many  believed,  that  the  Negro  who  gave  it,  had  been 
sent  expressly  to  decoy  the  Americans.  Certain  it  is, 
the  party  found  their  enemy  prepared,  and  received  so 
deadly  a  fire,  that  Wilmott  and  several  of  his  men,  fell 
lifeless,  while  Moore  and  many  others  remained  on  the 


92  WILMOTT  AND  MOORE. 

field,  covered  with  wounds.  Kosciusko,  although  a 
spontoon  was  shattered  in  his  hand,  and  his  coat 
pierced  by  four  balls,  escaped  unhurt.  A  British  dra- 
goon was  in  the  act  of  cutting  him  down,  when  he 
was  killed  by  Mr.  William  Fuller,  a  very  young  and 
gallant  volunteer,  who  had  joined  the  expedition. 

This  was  the  last  bloodshed  in  the  Revolutionary 
contest.  The  British  buried  Wilmott  with  the  honours 
of  war,  and  showed  the  greatest  attention  to  Moore, 
who  was  removed  to  Charleston,  to  receive  the  best 
surgical  assistance.  The  amputation  of  the  limb,  in 
which  he  received  his  principal  wound,  being  indis- 
pensible,  it  was  performed  within  a  few  days  after  the 
evacuation,  by  our  own  Surgeons  ;  but,  mortification 
rapidly  following,  he  died  greatly  and  universally 
lamented.  When  first  brought  into  town,  great  pains 
were  taken  by  the  British  Surgeons  to  extract  the  ball, 
but  without  success.  Mrs.  Daniel  Hall,  in  whose 
house  he  lodged,  and  who  had  watched  over  him  unre- 
mittingly, being  apprized  of  the  business  which 
brought  the  most  distinguished  Surgeons  together, 
entering  the  apartment  of  Moore,  as  soon  as  they  had 
retired,  said — "  I  am  happy  to  find,  that  you  have  not 
been  subjected  to  as  severe  an  operation  as  I  had 
anticipated  ;  you  appear  to  have  experienced  but  little 
agony.  I  was  constantly  in  the  next  room,  and  heard 
not  a  groan."  "  My  kind  friend,"  he  replied,  "  I 
felt  not  the  less  agony  ;  but,  I  would  not  have  breathed 
a  sigh,  in  the  presence  of  British  Officers,  to  have 
secured  a  long  and  fortunate  existence." 

Colonel  Lee,  in  his  Memoirs,  mentions  a  singular 
instance  of  an  Officer  of  the  British  Guards,  Captain 
Maynard.  distinguished,  on  many  occasions,  by  his 
intrepidity,  who,  reluctantly,  entering  into  the  engage- 
ment at  Guilford,  foretold  the  death  which  he  actually 
met. 


WILMOTT  AND  MOORE.  93 

I  consider  it,  in  like  manner,  remarkable,  that  Wil- 
mott,  whose  courage  bordered  upon  rashness,  and 
who  was  never  known  to  impede  the  progress  of  any 
enterprise,  however  hazardous,  on  being  ordered  by 
Kosciusko,  to  get  ready  for  the  expedition,  said  to  Mr. 
John  Gibbes,  one  of  the  youthful  volunteers  who 
served  under  him — "  I  have  not  my  baggage  at  hand  ; 
you  must  lend  me  a  shift  of  clothes,  my  young  friend  ; 
for,  if  I  fall,  which  is  not  unlikely,  it  would  be  a  satis- 
faction to  me,  that  the  enemy  should  find  me  clad  in 
clean  linen."  And  a  bowl  of  tea  being  presented  to 
him,  at  the  moment,  by  Miss  Mary  Anna  Gibbes,  (the 
same  who  had  risked  her  life  to  save  from  danger  her 
infant  cousin  Fenwick,)  he  gallantly  said — "This  atten- 
tion is  particularly  gratifying.  It  is  delightful  to  think, 
that  the  last  refreshment  that  may  ever  pass  my  lips, 
was  presented  by  so  lovely  and  amiable  a  friend."  In 
a  few  hours,  he  was  numbered  with  the  dead. 


LIEUT.  COL.  RICHARD  PARKER. 

The  fall  of  this  excellent  Officer,  is  thus  feelingly 
noticed  by  Lee : — "  He  was  one  of  that  illustrious 
band  of  youths,  who  first  flew  to  their  country's 
standard,  when  she  was  driven  to  unsheath  the  sword. 
Stout,  intelligent,  brave,  and  enterprising,  he  had 
been  advanced  from  the  command  of  a  company,  in 
the  course  of  the  war,  to  the  command  of  a  regiment. 
Always  beloved  and  respected,  late  in  the  siege  of 
Charleston,  he  received  a  ball  in  the  forehead,  and  fell 
dead  in  the  trenches,  embalmed  in  the  tears  of  his 
faithful  soldiers,  and  honoured .  by  the  regrets  of  the 
whole  army." 


94*  MOULTRIE  AND  NEYLE. 


CAPTS.  T.  MOULTRIE    &  PHILIP    NEYLE. 

During  a  sortie  made  by  a  detachment  of  the  Gar- 
rison of  Charleston,  under  Lieutenant  Colonel  Hen- 
derson, with  the  hope  of  impeding  the  approaches  of 
the  besiegers,  much  gallantry  was  displayed,  parti- 
cularly by  Mr.  Daniel  Wilson,  and  Benjamin  Singleton, 
then  a  boy  of  sixteen,  who,  when  volunteers  were 
called  for,  was  the  first  to  offer  his  service.  No 
advantage,  however,  resulted  from  it  ;  a  few  of  the 
enemy  were  killed,  and  eleven  prisoners  taken  ;  while 
the  service  lost  a  zealous  and  brave  Officer,  Captain 
Thomas  Moultrie,  who  fell  universally  lamented. 

Captain  Philip  Neyle,  about  the  same  period,  a  gen- 
tleman of  high  accomplishment,  refined  manners,  and 
determined  bravery,  was  killed  by  a  cannon  ball.  He 
was  Aid-de-Camp  to  General  Moultrie,  and  was 
pressing  forward  to  the  lines,  exulting  in  an  order 
which  he  conveyed,  to  quicken  the  fire  upon  the 
enemy,  when  the  catastrophe  occurred,  which  deprived 
his  country  of  one  of  its  boldest  defenders. 


The  battle  of  Eutaw,  proved  fatal  to  two  Officers 
of  distinguished  reputation  : 

LIEUT.  COL.  CAMPBELL, 

Of  the  1st  Virginia  Regiment,  who  had  previously, 
under  the  command  of  General  Greene,  both  at  Hob- 
kirk's  Hill,  and  at  the  siege  of  Ninety-Six,  gained 
high  renown,  fell  in  the  decisive  charge  which  broke 
the  British  line,  and  without  a  struggle  expired. 


DUVAL,  9^ 


LIEUTENANT  DUVAL, 

Of  the  Marylanders,  at  the  same  period,  closed  his 
brilliant  career  in  death.  The  service  did  not  boast  an 
Officer  of  more  consummate  valour,  or  higher  pro- 
mise. He  w^as  active,  intelligent,  and  ever  foremost 
in  the  pursuit  of  glory  and  renown.  At  Ninety- Six, 
he  led  the  forlorn  hope  of  Campbell,  storming  the 
Star  Redoubt  with  exemplary  intrepidity  ;  and  at 
Eutavv,  had  taken  a  field-piece  from  the  enemy,  when 
struck  by  the  fatal  ball  which  terminated  his  existence. 


MAJOR  BENJAMIN  HUGER. 

In  Major  Huger,  the  service  lost  an  Officer  of  great 
gallantry,  and  high  promise.  He  fell,  covered  with 
wounds,  before  Charleston,  while  executing  an  im- 
portant duty,  during  Provost's  invasion  ;  and,  to  in- 
crease the  calamity,  by  friendly  hands — the  fire  which 
destroyed  him,  proceeding  from  the  American  lines. 

The  Marquis  de  la  Fayette,  and  Baron  de  Kalb,  on 
their  first  arrival  on  the  shores  of  America,  landed  on 
North  Inland,  in  Wiuyaw  Bay,  and  were  welcomed, 
with  the  most  cordial  hospitality,  by  the  family  of 
Major  Huger,  who  made  it  their  summer  residence. 

Anxious  to  pursue  the  object  of  their  voyage,  they 
speedily,  under  the  guidance  of  their  friendly  host, 
removed  to  Charleston,  and  from  thence  to  the  army 
commanded  by  General  Washington,  in  which  they 
both,  in  a  very  short  time,  received  honourable 
appointments. 


96  HUGER. 

It  required  but  a  short  acquaintance  with  La  Fay- 
ette, to  feel  interested  in  his  success.  He  was  greatly 
admired  by  his  entertainers ;  and  their  sentiments  in 
his  favour,  continually  increased  by  his  rising  fame;  it 
is  not  to  be  wondered  at,  that  the  son  of  the  family, 
by  constantly  hearing  the  encomiums  bestowed  on  his 
gallantry,  and  love  of  liberty,  sltould  have  cherished 
that  enthusiastic  attachment  to  his  character,  that  led 
to  as  noble  an  act  of  friendship  and  heroism,  as  adorns 
the  page  of  chivalry. 

The  circumstances  attending  this  generous  exertion 
of  friendship,  are  so  highly  interesting  in  themselves, 
and  honourable  to  my  gallant  countryman,  Colonel 
Francis  Kinloch  Huger,  that  I  trust  I  shall  rather  be 
commended  than  blamed,  for  more  particularly 
detailing  them. 

When,  at  an  early  period  of  the  French  Revolution, 
La  Fayette  discovered,  that  the  Liberty  which  he  had 
so  zealously  contended  for,  and  which  he  had  fondly 
hoped  to  see  established  in  his  beloved  France,  was 
insulted  and  trampled  on  ;  and  that  the  government 
and  destinies  of  tho  Nation  had  passed  into  the  hands 
of  men,  far  more  ambitious  of  self  aggrandizement, 
than  to  promote  the  true  interests  of  their  Country. 
When  he  saw,  that  the  very  individuals,  who  but  a 
little  before,  had  enthusiastically  professed  themselves 
to  be  the  Apostles  of  Benevolence  and  Philanthrophy, 
bewildered  by  the  wildest  chimeras  of  imagination, 
and  dreaming  of  perfections  incompatible  with  the 
frailty  of  humanity,  were  now  to  be  satisfied  only  by 
unlimited  increase  of  power,  and  appeased  in  their 
resentment  by  the  unceasing  effusion  of  blood.  When 
in  the  scowl  of  the  giddy  multitude,  it  was  evident, 
that  the  life  which  he  would  have  sacrificed  with  de- 
light for  the  public  welfare,  was  now  to  be  aimed 
at  by  the  dagger  of  the  assassin.     Distracted  by  the 


HUGER.  97 

view  of  evils  that  he  could  not  prevent,  and    fore- 
seeing   the    miseries  that  would  speedily  fall    on   a 
deluded    people,    he    retired    a    voluntary    exile,    to 
seek  an  asylum  in  a  foreign  land,   where,  unnoticed 
and  unknown,  he  might  pity  and  lament  them.     It 
could  scarcely  be  imagined,  that  under   such  circum- 
stances, showing  no  disposition  to  hostility,  uttering 
no  word  that  could  offend,  no  sentence  that  indicated 
a  wish  to  disseminate  the  principles  of  his  own  poli- 
tical  creed,    and  from   the   reduced   number  of   his 
adherents,  incapacitated  from  doing  injury,  that  he 
should    have  been  regarded,  either  as  an  object   of 
apprehension,  or  distrust;  much  less,  that  the  effort  to 
procure   the   inestimable   blessing  of  freedom  to  his 
country,  should  subject  him  to  penalties,  that  cannot 
be  otherwise  considered,  when  weighed  in  the  scales 
of  justice,   than   as   outrages  to    every   principle   of 
honour   and    humanity.       Yet,  without  the  slightest 
coinmisseration  for  his  forlorn  condition,  or  sympathy 
in  his  unmerited  disgrace,  he  had  scarcely  entered  the 
dominions  of  the   Sovereigns   allied   against  France, 
before  he  was  arrested  and  delivered  up  to  Austria,  and 
conducted  to  Olmutz,  to  suffer  every  rigour  of  perse- 
cution,  in  solitude,  and  in  a  dungeon.     The   world, 
however,  viewed  not  his  misfortunes  with  cold  indif- 
ference.   Petitions  for  his  release  were  presented  from 
all  quarters;  and  in  the  British  House  of  Commons, 
the  motion  made  for  the  interposition  of  the  Govern- 
ment, in  the  sufferer's  behalf,  must  ever  do  honour  to 
the  memory  of  General  Fitzpatrick.     Unhappily,  the 
Emperor's  irritation  was,  at  the  moment,   exalted  to 
the  highest  pitch,  and  he  remained  inexorable. 

The  anxious  wish  to  free  from  captivity,  a  man  who 
had  boldly  stepped  forward  the  Champion  of  Liberty, 
originated  with  Dr.  Bolman,  a  young  Hanoverian, 
active,  intrepid,  and  intelligent,  but  communicated 
confidentially  to  his  friend  Huger,  with  an  inquiry,  if 

13 


98  HUGER. 

he  was  inclined  to  second  the  enterprise,  was  era- 
brared  with  alacrity,  and  entered  on  with  an  ardour, 
that  ensured  his  unremitted  efforts  to  produce  its 
accomplishment.  The  preparatory  arrangements  were 
speedily  settled.  Huger  feigned  indisposition,  and 
Bolman,  assuming  the  character  of  his  attending  Phy- 
sician, horses  were  purchased,  and  after  visiting 
several  German  cities,  the  friends  arrived  at  Olmutz. 
Constantly  intent  on  the  object  of  their  association,  an 
acquaintance  was  speedily  formed  with  the  gaoler,  to 
whose  custody  the  illustrious  prisoner  was  committed, 
and  without  appearing  to  take  too  great  an  interest  in 
his  fate,  by  speaking  occasionally  of  the  severity  of  his 
treatment,  which  they  candidly  acknowledged,  they 
thought  disproportioned  to  his  offence,  obtained  permis- 
sion to  send  him  books,  that  might  beguile  the  tedium  of 
solitude,  and  afford  some  mitigation  of  his  griefs.  The 
gaoler,  a  simple,  benevolent  man,  saw  no  impropriety  in 
the  transaction,  while  the  books  delivered  were  subject- 
ed to  his  inspection,  and  the  opportunity  afforded  of 
ascertaining,  that  there  was  nothing  improper  in  their 
contents.  Thus,  a  correspondence  was  established. 
La  Fayette,  informed  of  the  source  of  this  unhoped 
for  indulgence,  at  once  conceived  that  more  was 
meant  than  met  the  eye,  he,  therefore,  carefully  pe- 
rused the  book,  and  found,  in  different  places,  words 
written  with  a  pencil,  which  being  put  together,  gave 
him  the  names  of  the  parties,  and  a  clue  to  their  de- 
signs, which,  if  approved,  would  at  once  determine 
them,  at  all  hazards,  to  free  him  from  his  captivity. 
The  book  was  returned  with  an  open  note,  thanking 
them  for  their  civility  in  sending  it,  and  an  assurance, 
that  it  had  been  read  with  marked  attention,  and  that 
he  was,  in  the  highest  degree,  charmed  with  its  con- 
tents. In  this  manner,  and  by  the  stratagem  of 
writing  in  lemon-juice  on  the  back  of  a  note,  in  its 
visible  contents,  altogether  trivial,  with  a  hint  in  the 


HUGER.  99 

book  sent — "  Quand  vous  aurez  lu  ce  billet  mettez  le 
mi  feu;  which,  when  complied  with,  caused  the  in- 
tended communication  distinctly  to  appear  in  legible 
characters,  he  was  made  acquainted  with  their  ar- 
rangements, and  the  day  fixed  on  to  put  their  plans  in 
execution.  They  had  been  already  apprized  by  the 
gaoler,  that  his  prisoner,  though  generally  closely  con- 
fined, was  permitted,  under  the  charge  of  proper 
attendants,  to  take  exercise  without  the  walls ;  that 
he  rode  in  an  open  cabriolet,  accompanied  by  an  Offi- 
cer, and  attended  by  an  armed  Soldier,  who  mounted 
behind  by  way  of  guard  ;  and  that,  when  at  a  distance 
from  the  walls,  that  it  was  their  custom  to  descend 
and  walk  together,  for  the  better  enjoyment  of 
exercise. 

On  the  day  appointed.  La  Fayette  was  requested  to 
gain  as  great  a  distance  from  the  town  as  possible,  and 
on  their  approach,  by  an  appointed  signal,  to  discover 
himself,  as  he  was  unknown  to  both. 

Every  preliminary  being  arranged,  the  friends  quitted 
Olmutz,  well  mounted,  Bolman  leading  a  third  horse, 
and  in  anxious  expectation  awaited  the  approach  of 
the  object  of  their  solicitude. 

The  city  is  situated  about  thirty  miles  from  Silesia, 
in  the  midst  of  a  plain,  which,  taking  the  town  as  a 
centre,  extends  three  miles  each  way,  without  the 
interposition  of  woods,  rocks,  or  impediments  of  any 
kind.  From  the  walls,  every  thing  passing  within 
these  limits,  could  be  distinctly  seen.  Centinels  were 
posted  at  all  points,  to  give  the  alarm,  whenever  a 
prisoner  endeavoured  to  escape,  and  considerable  re- 
wards promised  to  all  who  contributed  their  aid  to 
secure  him.  These  were,  indeed,  appalling  difficult 
ties,  but  not  sufficient  to  check  the  ardour  of  youthful 
enthusiasm,  intent  to  break  the  chains  of  a  hero, 
against  whom  no  accusation  rested,   but  an  ardent  and 


100  HUGER, 

unceasing  efibrt  to  better  the  condition  of  his  fellow 
men. 

La  Fayette,  at  length,  appeared,  accompanied  by 
his  usual  attendants.  The  preconcerted  signal  was 
given,  and  returned.  A  conflict  speedily  succeded, 
which  gave  freedom  to  the  prisoner.  The  led  horse 
Tvas  presented  by  Huger,  who  exclaimed — "  Use  the 
means,  sir,  that  are  offered  for  escape,  and  may  For- 
tune be  your  guide  ;"  but,  before  he  could  mount,  the 
gleam  of  the  sun  upon  the  sword  that  had  been  wrest- 
ed from  the  Officer,  startled  the  animal,  who  broke 
his  bridle  and  fled.  Bolman  rode  off  in  pursuit, 
hoping  to  overtake  him.  In  the  interim,  Huger,  with 
a  generosity  truly  chivalric,  insisted  that  La  Fayette 
should  mount  the  horse  that  he  himself  rode,  and 
hasten  to  the  place  appointed  as  a  rendezvous. — 
"  Fly,"  he  exclaimed — "  the  alarm  is  given — the  pea- 
sants are  assembling — save  yourself  I"  The  advice 
was  followed,  and  in  a  little  time,  the  fugitive  was  out 
of  sight.  Bolman,  who  had  in  vain  pursued  the 
frightened  horse,  now  returned,  and  taking  Huger  up 
behind  him,  gallopped  away,  following  the  route  of  La 
Fayette.  They  had  gone  but  a  little  way,  when  the 
horse,  unequal  to  such  a  burden,  stumbled  and  fell, 
and  Bolman  was  so  terribly  bruised,  as  to  be  scarcely 
able  to  rise  from  the  ground.  The  gallant  Huger, 
aided  his  exertions  to  remount,  and  superior  to  every 
selfish  consideration,  earnestly  intreated  him  to  follow 
La  Fayette,  declaring  that  he  could  easily  reach  the 
woods  which  bordered  the  plain,  and  in  their  recesses 
find  security.  Bolman,  though  with  extreme  reluc- 
tance, complied. 

During  the  rencontre  which  had  taken  place,  the 
Soldier,  who  had  remained  with  the  cabriolet,  instead 
of  assisting  his  Officer,  ran  off  towards  the  town,  but 
the  alarm  had  been  given  long  before  his  arrival  there. 
The  transaction  had  been  seen  from  the  walls,  the 


HUGER.  101 

cannon  fired,  and  the  country  raised.  Bolman  evaded 
his  pursuers  by  telling  them,  that  he  himself  was  in 
pursuit.  Huger,  less  fortunate,  was  marked  by  a 
party  who  never  lost  sight  of  him,  and  being  over- 
taken, was  seized  and  carried  back  in  triumph  to  01- 
mutz.  Meanwhile,  La  Fayette  was  rapidly  advancing 
in  his  flight,  and  had  actually  progreesed  ten  miles, 
when  arriving  at  a  spot  where  the  road  divided,  he 
was  at  a  loss  which  to  choose,  and  unluckily  took  the 
wrong  one.  Its  direction  very  speedily  induced  him 
to  suspect  the  truth,  and  he  stopped  to  make  inquiry 
of  a  man,  who,  concluding  that  he  was  a  prisoner 
attempting  to  escape,  gave  him  a  wrong  direction, 
running  to  a  Magistrate  to  communicate  his  suspicion, 
so  that  La  Fayette,  at  a  moment  that  he  believed  him- 
self regaining  a  road  that  would  give  him  security, 
found  himself  surrounded  by  an  armed  force,  and 
again  a  prisoner.  To  the  interrogation  of  the  Magis- 
trate, his  answers  were  so  apt  and  ready,  and  a  tale 
invented  to  account  for  the  rapidity  of  his  movement, 
so  plausible,  and  so  satisfactory,  that  expressing  his 
conviction  of  his  innocence,  he  was  about  to  dismiss 
him,  when  a  young  man  entering  the  apartment,  with 
papers  which  required  Magisterial  signature,  after 
fixing  his  eyes  attentively  on  the  prisoner,  said — • 
"  This  is  General  La  Fayette  !  I  was  present  when 
he  was  delivered  up  by  the  Prussians  to  the  Austrian 

Commandant,  at .     This  is  the  man,  I  cannot  be 

mistaken."  This  declaration  at  once  settled  his  fate. 
He  too,  was  triumphantly  conducted  to  Olmutz. 
Bolman  escaped  into  Prussian  Silesia,  but  after  two 
days,  v.as  arrested  and  again  delivered  over  to  the 
Austrian  authorities. 

On  the  arrival  of  Huger  at  Olmutz,  he  was  carried 
before  Count  Archo,  the  Military  Commandant  of  the 
City,  a  veteran  of  high  respectability,  who  conducted 
himself,  during  the  examination,  with  gentleness  and 


102  HUGER. 

humanity,  but  after  some  inquiries,  delivered  him  over 
to  the  Civil  Authority. 

Three  days  after  this,  chained  hand  and  foot,  the 
dauntless  enthusiast  was  again  brought  before  the 
Commandant  and  Civil  Officer,  to  be  further  interro- 
gated. The  temper  and  disposition  towards  him, 
seemed  now  essentially  changed. 

The  Civil  Officer,  this  day,  took  the  lead  in  the 
examination  ;  and  when  Huger  complained  with  strong 
expressions  of  indignation,  of  his  treatment,  the  Judge 
imperiously  demanded — "  Know  you,  sir,  the  forfeit 
of  your  conduct  ?  An  answer  being  returned  in  the 
negative,  he  very  solemnly  and  impressively  replied — 
"  Your  life  !"  But,  apparently  in  order  to  remove  the 
impression  that  such  a  sentence  was  calculated  to  pro- 
duce. Count  Archo  immediately  turned  the  discourse 
into  a  panegyric  upon  the  Emperor,  telling  him,  that 
his  youth,  his  motives,  and  conduct,  could  not  but 
secure  his  clemency.  "  Clemency,"  said  Huger  ; 
how  can  I  expect  it  from  a  man,  who  did  not  act  even 
with  justice,  towards  La  Fayette."  A  check  was 
immediately  given  to  the  boldness  of  the  prisoner,  and 
Count  Archo  then  mildly  added — "  I  judge  of  others 
from  my  own  feelings.  The  attempt  to  injure  me  I 
freely  forgive  ;  and  if  ever  1  shall  need  a  friend,  I  wish 
that  friend  may  be  an  American." 

Count  Archo's  entire  conduct,  was  probably  in- 
tended, not  only  to  encourage  hope  in  the  prisoner, 
but  to  beget  some  consideration  for  him,  and  to  give 
him  consequence  in  the  eyes  of  the  Civil  Officer, 
which  might  induce  him  to  treat  him  better,  and  with 
greater  respect  tlian  he  had  at  first  seemed  inclined  to 
do.  And  it  certaiidy  had  its  effi^ct.  Yet,  with  what 
shadow  of  excuse  can  the  conduct  of  the  Emperor  be 
palliated  ?  A  heart,  possessed  of  any  claim  to  ge- 
nerous feeling,  or  capable  of  justly  appreciating  the 
enthusiasm    of  disinterested    friendship,   would   have 


HUGER.  X03 

spurned  the  idea  of  treating  with  rigour,  an  intrepid 
youili,  whose  generous  ardour,  in  a  cause  that  he 
idolized,  constituted  the  only  crime  alleged  against 
him.  But  chains — a  dungeon — restrictions  both  in 
food  and  clothing,  were  imposed  by  the  imi)erious  fiat 
of  power,  and  his  sufferings  regarded  with  an  apathy 
degrading  to  the  character  of  man.  Yet,  the  ardent 
spirit  that  gave  birth  to  enterprise,  did  not,  under 
such  appalling  circumstances,  forsake  him.  His  mind 
was  at  peace  with  itself,  and  his  fortitude  remained 
unshaken. 

During  a  long  and  rigorous  confinement,  Hope 
embellished  the  anticipations  of  more  propitious  for- 
tunes, and  constancy  enabled  him,  with  firmness,  to 
support  the  immediate  goadings  and  pressure  of  cala- 
mity. Restored  at  last  to  freedom,  he  sought  his 
native  country — became  conspicuously  serviceable  in  a 
military  capacity,  and  now,  in  tranquil  retirement, 
possesses  as  much  of  happiness  as  domestic  felicity, 
and  the  universal  esteem  of  his  fellow-citizens  can 
possibly  bestow. 


SURVIVORS  OF  THE  REVOLUTION. 


Having  presented  to  my  young  Countrymen,  this  brief  Narrative  of 
the  achievements  of  their  ancestors,  and  of  the  patriotism  of  the 
dead, 

"  By  all  their  country's  wishes  blest," 

would  it  not  be  blameable,  to  withhold  the  tribute  of  applause 
from  the  living,  who  honoured  in  early  life,  with  the  love  and 
confidence  of  their  Country,  give  now  to  the  world,  in  the  vale  of 
years,  examples  of  every  patriotic  virtue,  that  can  evince  their 
devotion  to  it. 


GENERAL  C.  C.  PINCKNEY. 

Very  early  after  his  appointment,  to  command  a 
company  in  the  1st  Continental  Regiment  of  his  na- 
tive State,  Captain  C.  C.  Pinckney  was  sent  into 
North  Carolina  to  recruit.  He  had  scarcely  esta- 
blished himself  in  quarters  at  Nevvbern,  when  two 
persons  arrived  there  as  settlers,  very  evidently,  both 
from  personal  appearance,  and  easy  address,  of  supe- 
rior rank  and  qualifications.  The  one  was  advanced 
in  years  ;  the  other  appeared  in  the  bloom  and  vigour 
of  life.  Captain  Pinckney  immediately  recollected, 
that  an  intercepted  letter  from  General  Gage  to  Gov- 
ernor Martin  (which,  as  a  member  of  the  Secret  Com- 
mittee, he  had  read  previously  to  his  departure  from 
Charleston,)  assured  him,  "  That  a  Highland  Officer 


PINCKNEY.  105 

of  ability,  well  calculated  to  conduct  an  enterprise 
sucf-essfully,  would  speedily  appear  in  his  province  ; 
and  earnestly  intreated  him,  till  such  a  person  should 
produce  his  credentials,  and  to  his  entire  satisfaction, 
make  himself  known  as  a  zealous  Loyalist,  that  he 
would  use  his  utmost  endeavours  to  keep  the  Scotch 
emigrants  quiet,  lest,  by  premature  insurrection,  they 
mii^ht  blight  the  existing  hope,  and  favourable  prospect 
of  a  counter  Revolution."  Conviction,  struck  forcibly 
on  the  mind  of  Captain  Pinckney,  that  one  of  the 
persons  who  had  attracted  his  attention,  was  the  very 
individual  alluded  to  in  the  letter  of  General  Gage — 
the  other,  his  assistant  and  councellor.  He,  accord- 
ingly, repaired  to  the  Committee  of  Public  Safety, 
and  having  stated  his  reasons  for  believing,  that  the 
strangers  were  hostile  to  the  views  and  interests  of  the 
country,  demanded  their  arrest.  Hostility  was,  as 
yet,  but  in  its  dawn — Aggression,  on  the  one  part,  had 
not  excited  inflexible  resentment  on  the  other.  The 
Members  of  the  Committee  were  timid,  and  declined 
interfering,  choosing  rather  to  run  the  risk  of  a  great 
evil,  than  do  an  act  that  might  be  found  unjust  and 
oppressive.  "  Besides,"  (it  was  alleged  by  one  of 
them)  "  the  intercepted  letter  spoke  but  of  one,  and 
here  are  two  persons  equally  liable  to  suspicions."  "  I 
would  recommend  the  arrest  of  both  of  them,"  re- 
plied Captain  Pinckney.  "  Prudence  demands  it. 
The  age  of  the  one  proclaims  him  the  Monitor  to 
advise  ;  the  vigour  and  activity  of  the  other,  the  Lea- 
der to  execute."  "  It  is  enough,"  it  was  replied, 
"  that  we  allow  you  to  recruit.  We  cannot  any  fur- 
ther, while  yet  a  glimmering  prospect  remains  of 
reconciliation,  oppose  the  Royal  authority."  "  Then, 
gentlemen,"  rejoined  the  Captain,  "  prepare  for  the 
consequences." 

The  event  very  speedily  evinced  the  clear  and   ac- 
curate perceptions  of  Captain  Pinckney.     The  stran- 

14 


106  PINCKNEY. 

gers  repaired  to  Cross  Creek,  and  speedily  exciting 
the  Countrymen  to  arm  in  support  of  the  Royal  (lov- 
ernment,  appeared  at  the  head  of  a  very  formidable 
force.  General  Moore  immediately  marched  against 
them.  M'' Donald,  the  Chief,  was  intrusted  by  Go- 
vernor Martin,  with  the  supreme  command,  and 
justified  the  high  opinion  entertained  of  his  courage 
and  activity  ;  but,  the  veteran  M^Leod,  his  associate, 
being  killed,  and  many  other  Officers  of  his  party,  his 
men  abandoned  him,  and  he  was  compelled  to  surren- 
der himself  a  prisoner. 

After  the  repulse  of  the  British  Fleet  at  Sullivan's 
Island,  little  prospect  appearing  of  immediate  hos- 
tilities in  the  South,  the  anxiety  of  Colonel  C,  C. 
Pinckney,  (now  advanced  to  the  command  of  the  1st 
Regiment)  to  serve  his  country,  and  to  acquire  an  in- 
crease of  military  knowledge,  induced  him  tojoin  the 
army  in  the  vicinity  of  Philadelphia  :  There  he  was 
immediately  received  into  the  family  of  the  Com- 
mander in  Chief,  and  appointed  his  Aid-de-Camp. 
In  this  capacity,  he  was  present  at  the  battles  of 
Brandywine  and  Germantown,  and  by  his  intelli- 
gence, zeal,  and  activity,  so  successfully  won  the  con- 
fidence of  Washington,  as  to  be  honoured  by  him 
afterwards,  both  in  the  field  and  in  the  diplomatic 
corps,  with  the  most  distinguished  and  important  ap- 
pointments. 

As  soon  as  danger  threatened  the  South,  he  returned 
to  Carolina ;  and  on  the  approach  of  General  Clinton 
to  Charleston,  was  intrusted  with  the  defence  of  Fort 
Moultrie.  Influenced  by  the  recollection  of  former 
misfortunes,  and  intent  only  on  gaining  the  command 
of  the  Harbour,  the  British  Admiral,  profitting  by  the 
advantage  of  a  favourable  breeze,  and  flowing  tide, 
passed  the  Fort  with  rapidity,  giving  little  opportunity 
to  the  Garrison,  to  display  either  courage  or  skill. 
The  disappointment  was  great,  and  the  hopes  of  en- 


HNCKNEY.  107 

iiancing  the  reputation  of  our  arms  was  completely 
frustrated.     To  remain  an  idle  spectator  of  the  siege, 
was  to  a  soldier  of  enterprise,  ardent  in  the  pursuit  of 
his  country's  glory,  altogether  impossible.       He  has- 
tened with  a  part  of  the  Garrison,  to  the  post  of  dan- 
ger ;  and  so  long  as  a  cheering  ray  of  hope  encouraged 
resistance,  offered  an  animating  example  of  courage 
and  of  constancy.     At  the  Council  of  War,  summoned 
during  the  siege,  to  deliberate  on  the  propriety  of  sur- 
rendering the  City  to  the  enemy,  Colonel  C.  C.  Pinck- 
ney  delivered  his  opinion  to  this  effect : — "  I  will  not 
say,  that  if  the  enemy  attempt  to  carry  our  lines  by 
storm,  that  we  shall  be  able  to  resist  suscessfully  ;  but 
am  convinced,  that  we  shall  so  cripple  the  army  before 
us,  that  although  we  may  not  live  to  enjoy  the  benefits 
ourselve§,  yet  to  the   United   States   they  will  prove 
incalculably  great.     Considerations  of  self,  are  out  of 
the  question.     They  cannot  influence  any  member  of 
this  Council.     My  voice  is   for  rejecting  all  terms  of 
capitulation,  and  for  continuing  hostilities  to  the  last 
extremity." 

The  battle  of  Bunker's  Hill,  and  the  more  recent 
and  brilliant  victory  at  New  Orleans,  show  how  cor- 
rect the  views  of  Colonel  Pinckney,  and  prove,  how 
completely  militia  can  cripple,  or  destroy  the  most 
veteran  troops,  when  sheltered  (however  slightly)  be- 
hind entrenchments,  which,  to  them,  supply  the  place 
of  discipline. 

Captured  in  Charleston,  and  a  prisoner  till  the  con- 
clusion of  the  war,  no  further  opportunity  was  afforded 
to  Colonel  Pinckney,  of  serving  his  country  in  the 
field. 

An  effort  while  yet  in  durance,  in  the  cause  of  hu- 
manity, must  not  be  passed  over  in  silence.  Major 
Hyrne,  the  Commissioner  sent  by  General  Greene 
into  Charleston,  for  the  purpose  of  negotiating  an  ex- 
change of  prisoners,  indignant  at  the  harsh  treatment 


108  PINCKNEY. 

shown  to  Colonel  Hayne,  and  anxious  to  prevent  the 
infliction  of  the  penalties  denounced  against  him,  pro- 
posed to  Colonel  Balfour,  that  the  circumstances  of 
his  case  should  be  discussed  by  Colonel  C.  C.  Pinck- 
ney  of  the  American  Army,  and  Major  Barry  of  the 
British  Forces,  intelligent  Officers,  at  that  period 
engaged  in  settling  some  points  of  controversy  betwixt 
the  contending  parties.  This  being  assented  to  by 
Colonel  Balfour,  Major  Barry,  who  probably  thought, 
that  an  American  Officer  knew  just  as  little  of  the 
Law  of  Nations,  as  of  the  Doctrines  of  Confucius, 
boldly  quoted  the  opinions  of  Grotius,  as  decidedly 
favourable  to,  and  supporting  the  justice  of  the  Bri- 
tish proceedings  ;  which  being  instantaneously  declared 
incorrect  by  Colonel  Pinckney,  who  averred,  that  the 
sentiments  of  that  great  man  were  in  direct  opposition 
to  the  statement  made  by  Major  Barry,  reference  was 
made  to  the  author — whose  works  being  produced  by 
Colonel  C.  C.  Pinckney,  Major  Barry  was  compelled 
to  confess,  that  he  was  in  error,  lamenting — "  That 
he  had  not  studied  the  passage  with  his  usual  accu- 
racy." Grotius,  however,  was  no  longer  his  oracle — 
it  was  indeed  farcical  to  have  named  him,  for  he  well 
knew  the  resolve  of  Lord  Rawdon,  and  that  the  Laws 
of  the  Medes  and  Persians,  were  not  more  immutable 
than  his  fiat,  once  pronounced. 

As  a  Member  of  the  enlightened  Assembly  which 
framed  the  Constitution  of  the  United  States,  he 
assisted  in  forming  our  present  Government,  and  after- 
wards in  the  State  Convention,  by  the  force  of  his 
reasoning,  and  clear  demonstration  of  its  excellencies, 
contributed  amply  to  its  adoption,  by  a  considerable 
majority. 

In  1794,  his  firm  opposition  to  the  arrogance  of  the 
French  Directory,  demanding  Tribute  as  the  price  of 
Peace,  obtained  for  him,  the  universal  api)lause  of  his 
country  ;  nor  can  it  be  forgotten,  while  the  hallowed 


PINCKNEY.  109 

Standard,  raised  at  the  construction  of  the  Lines  for 
the  defence  of  Charleston,  on  the  Pinckney  Redoubt, 
proclaims  the  cherished  sentiment  of  America — "  Mil- 
lions  for  defence,  but  not  a  cent  for  tribute.^'' 

Another  trait  of  character,  exhibited  at  a  later 
period,  I  cannot  withhold  from  view.  An  Officer  of 
rank,  talent,  and  distinguished  military  services,  having 
been  nominated  in  1794,  to  a  command  inferior  to 
General  Hamilton's,  indignantly  exclaimed — "  Though 
my  salvation  depended  on  it,  I  would  spurn  the  Com- 
mission, rather  than  serve  under  a  man  whom  I  had 
once  commanded/'  When  General  C.  C.  Pinckney, 
on  his  return  from  France,  was  informed  that  General 
Hamilton,  his  junior  in  rank,  had  been  placed  above 
him,  by  the  nomination  of  General  Washington,  in  the 
true  spirit  of  patriotism,  he  replied — "  I  am  confident 
that  the  Commander  in  Chief  had  sufficient  reasons  for 
this  {)reference.  Let  us  first  dispose  of  our  enemies — 
we  shall  then  have  leisure  to  settle  the  question  of 
rank." 

It  is  a  due  tribute  to  the  disinterestedness  that  I 
venerate,  that  I  record  one  other  occurrence  of  i)ecu- 
liar  interest.  It  is  a  fact  well  understood,  that  at  the 
period  of  the  struggle  of  party,  relative  to  the  nomi- 
nation of  a  President  of  the  United  States,  in  the 
year  1800,  that  General  C.  C.  Pinckney,  by  consenting 
to  unite  his  name  with  that  of  Mr.  Jefferson,  would 
have  secured  to  himself,  the  unanimous  vote  of  the 
Electors  of  South  Carolina.  But,  consistent  with  his 
decided  principles,  such  an  association  could  not  be 
entered  into  ;  and  to  relinquish  them,  satisfied  as  he 
was  of  their  purity  and  correctness,  with  a  view  to 
self-agrandizement,  would  have  evinced  a  duplicity 
altogether  repulsive  to  his  nature.  The  scheme  of 
union  was,  accordingly,  dropped.  The  contest  took 
place,  and  the  dignity  aspired  to  was  obtained  by  Mr. 
Jefferson.     The  Ex-President  Adams,  writing  to  Gen- 


110  PINCKNEY. 

eral  Gadsden  on  the  occasion,  thus  expresses  himself— 
"  I  have  been  well  informed  of  the  frank,  candid,  and 
honourable  conduct  of  General  C.  C.  Pinckney  at 
your  State  Election,  which  was  conformable  to  the 
whole  tenor  of  his  actions  through  life,  as  far  as  they 
have  come  to  my  knowledge." 


GENERAL  THOMAS  PINCKNEY. 

Appointed  by  the  Society  of  the  Cincinnati  of 
South  Carolina,  at  the  commencement  of  the  late  war 
with  Great  Britain,  to  declare  their  satisfaction  on  the 
nomination  of  their  President,  Gen«nal  Thomas  Pinck- 
ney, to  the  command  of  the  Army  of  the  South,  it  was 
particularly  grateful  to  me  to  find,  that  the  sentiments 
then  expressed,  were  greeted  with  the  perfect  appro- 
bation of  the  public.  The  sketch  of  his  character, 
which  I  shall  now  present,  will,  I  trust,  be  received 
with  equal  favour,  since  more  particular  traits  are  given 
of  his  military  career,  and  details  of  achievements 
that,  in  a  high  degree,  exalt  his  claim  to  applause. 

Pursuing  his  studies  in  Europe,  previous  to  tlie  Re- 
volutionary War,  the  dawn  of  hostility  towards  his 
country  no  sooner  appeared,  than  renouncing  his  pro- 
fessional pursuits,  his  whole  attention  was  given  to 
the  acquisition  of  military  knowledge,  and  so  rapid  was 
his  proficiency,  that  the  rudiments  of  discipline  were 
first  taught  by  him  to  the  infantry  of  the  South 
Carolina  line.  A  mutiny  among  the  troops,  at  an 
early  period  of  the  war,  afforded  an  opportunity  of 
manifesting  that  firmness  and  decision,  so  charac- 
teristic of  him  as  a  Soldier.  Persuasion  having  been 
first  employed,  without  avail,  while  other  Officers  in- 


FINCKNEY.  Ill 

duls;ed  in  menaces  and  upbraidings,  Major  Pinckney, 
una  wed  by  their  threats,  and  regardless  of  personal 
safety,  walked  deliberately  into  the  midst  of  the  mu- 
tineers, and  with  a  blow  of  his  sabre  cut  down  the 
ringleader.  The  effect  was  instantaneous — the  cry 
for  pardon  was  universal,  and  the  order  to  disperse, 
obeyed  without  a  murmur. 

At  the  battle  of  Stono,  his  exertions,  as  second  in 
command  of  the  light  infantry  under  Colonel  Hender- 
son, gained  him  the  highest  applause.  Two  com- 
panies of  the  71st  Regiment,  the  elites  of  the  British 
Army,  sallying  out  from  their  redoubts  to  support  their 
pickets,  were  eagerly  charged  with  the  bayonet,  and 
so  completely  routed,  that  nine  only  of  their  number 
returned  within  their  lines.  The  credit  of  the  corps  was, 
still  further  increased,  by  the  bravery  with  which  they 
covered  the  retreat  of  the  army,  enabling  General 
Lincoln,  not  only  to  maintain  order,  but  to  carry  off 
his  wounded  without  loss. 

At  the  attack  at  Savannah,  he  headed  an  assailing 
column  of  the  Continental  Army,  and  actually 
mounted  one  of  the  British  Redoubts,  but  was  com- 
pelled, after  sustaining  considerable  loss,  reluctantly  to 
retire. 

In  the  account  given  of  the  suppression  of  the 
mutiny  in  his  regiment,  there  appears  sufficient  evi- 
dence of  his  firmness  and  decision.  No  trait  of  his 
character  more  highly  entitles  him  to  admiration,  than 
the  inflexible  steadiness  of  his  temper.  The  com- 
posure of  his  mind  was  never  ruffled,  either  by  the 
threatening  of  immediate  danger,  or  pressure  of  con- 
tinued misfortune.  I  was  informed  by  my  respected 
friend  Colonel  D^Oijley,  that  while  with  Major  Pinck- 
ney, superintending  the  construction  of  a  redoubt  at 
the  siege  of  Savannah,  a  shell  from  the  enemy  fell 
into  the  ditch,  and  burst  so  near  them,  that  the  earth 
was  thrown  with  violence  over  them  both,  and  in  such 


112  PINCKNEY. 

a  manner,  as  completely  to  blind  them,  when  the 
Major,  without  changing  his  position,  or  showing 
the  slightest  discomposure,  calmly  said — "  I  think, 
D'Oyley,  that  must  have  been  very  near  us;"  and 
continued,  with  great  animation,  to  encourage  the 
workmen  to  complete  their  labours.  I  state  on  the 
same  authority,  that  at  this  disastrous  siege,  when  the 
assailing  column  which  he  led  was  repulsed,  and  a 
retreat  ordered,  some  confusion  arising  from  the  desire 
of  the  van,  to  press  forward  and  get  out  of  the  reach 
of  a  heavy  and  destructive  fire,  by  which  they  were 
greatly  incommoded.  Major  Pinckney  hastening  into 
the  front,  commanded  an  immediate  halt.  "  Success, 
my  brave  fellows,"  he  exclaimed,  "  though  richly 
merited,  has  not  crowned  your  exertions  ;  yet,  do  not 
disgrace  yourselves  by  precipitate  flight ;  and  though 
repulsed,  quit  the  field  like  Soldiers."  The  effect  of 
this  address  was  instantaneously  perceptible.  Order 
was  immediately  restored,  and  the  regiment,  with  de- 
liberate step,  regained  their  encampments. 

At  the  disastrous  battle  of  Camden,  while  acting  as 
Aid-de-Camp  to  General  Gates,  he  was  desperately 
wounded  and  made  a  prisoner.  His  patience  and  for- 
titude remained  unshaken.  Conveyed  into  the  town, 
it  was  night  when  he  reached  Mrs.  Cla\fs  house  (then 
by  the  fiat  of  power,  converted  into  a  Hospital.)  The 
family  had  retired,  and  Major  Pinckney  was  placed  on  a 
table  in  the  piazza,  where  he  lay  till  morning,  suffering 
under  a  compound  fracture  of  both  bones  of  his  leg,  as 
he  would  not  permit  the  rest  of  an  oppressed  and  patriotic 
female  to  be  disturbed.  This  calm  and  happy  temper  of 
mind,  contributed  in  no  small  degree  to  the  preser- 
vation of  his  life,  for  an  exfoliation  of  the  broken 
bones  following  soon  after  his  removal  to  quarters, 
and  no  surgical  aid  at  hand,  he  was  obliged  to  direct 
the  dressing  of  his  wound,  and  to  point  out  to  his 
anxious  and  intrei)id  wife,  the  splinters  that  occasioned 


PINCKNEY.  113 

the  greatest  agony,  while  with  tenderness  she  removed 
them.  The  trial  was,  indeed,  a  severe  one,  to  a  lady 
of  uncommon  sensibility  ;  but  there  is  no  exertion  to 
which  the  feinale  heart,  under  the  influence  of  its 
alfections,  is  not  equal.  The  duty  performed,  the  for- 
titude of  Mrs.  Pinckney  was  no  more  ;  her  emotion, 
on  seeing  her  husband's  sufferings,  so  totally  over- 
powered her,  that  she  fainted  and  fell.  The  recollec- 
tion of  such  tender  and  heroic  conduct  cannot  be  lost; 
it  must  ever  command  the  admiration  of  the  world, 
and  to  her  sex,  afford  a  fascinating  example  for 
imitation. 

The  Embassies  of  Major  Pinckney,  both  in  England 
and  Spain,  give  ample  proof,  that  the  intrepid  Soldier 
was  an  able  negotiator  ;  while  the  flattering  reception 
he  met  with,  on  his  return  to  his  native  country, 
evinced  the  continued  affection  of  his  fellow-citizens.* 
He  was  shortly  after  elected  to  Congress,  and  there 
his  talents  always  commanded  the  most  respectful 
attention. 

It  is  little  known,  but  certainly  worthy  to  be  record- 
ed, that  during  our  negotiation  with  France  in  1798, 
when  the  dispatches  of  our  Envoys,  Generals  Pinckney, 
Marshall,  and  Mr.  E.  Gerry,  reached  the  United  States, 
detailing  the  hostility  of  the  Directory,  and  the  humi- 
liating proposition  of  tribute.  President  Adams,  appre- 
hending, that  their  immediate  publication  might 
occasion  further  indignities  to  be  offered  to  those  gen- 
tlemen, still  remaining  in  Paris,  wished  to  withhold 
them  for  a  time  from  public  view.  On  consulting 
Major  Pinckney,  he  gave  a  decided  opinion,  that  they 
ought  immediately  to  be  made  public,  that  the  people 
might  obtain  a  perfect  knowledge  of  the  insulting 
conduct  of  the  French  Directory.  "And,  sir,"  he 
feelingly  added,  "  if  the  situation  of  my  brother  causes 

*•  His  fellow-citizens  took  the  horses  from  his  carriage,  and  dragged  him  in 
it,  amidst  loud  plaudits,  to  tlie  place  of  his  residence. 

15 


1 14  PINCKNEY. 

you  to  hosifate,  I  speak  for  him,  as  I  know  he  would 
for  me,  were  I  similarly  circumstanced.  The  glory  of 
our  country  is  at  stake.  Individual  sufferings  must 
not  be  regarded.  Be  the  event  what  it  may,  life  is 
nothing  compared  with  the  honour  of  America." 

During  the  late  war  with  Great  Britain,  he  com- 
manded the  Southern  Army,  and  his  utmost  efforts 
were  unremittingly  employed,  in  the  first  instance,  to 
perfect  the  discipline  of  the  troops,  to  give  them  a  con- 
fidence in  themselves,  and  an  ardent  desire  for  fame; 
and  in  the  second  place,  to  secure  our  Coasts  and 
Cities  by  fortifications,  at  those  points  the  most  exposed 
to  the  enemy.  The  Indian  War,  brought  to  a  speedy 
termination  under  his  auspices,  gives  the  best  testimony 
of  the  wisdom  of  his  measures.  Before  he  assumed 
the  command,  victories  were  gained  without  the  acqui- 
sition of  permanent  advantage,  and  triumph  invariably 
followed  by  preci[)itate  retreat.  The  want  of  means 
to  maintain  the  superiority  acquired,  imperiously  called 
for  its  relinquishment ;  but,  by  establishing  Military 
Posts,  with  depots  of  provisions,  arms,  and  ammu- 
nition, security  was  given  to  conquest,  and  no  aban- 
donment of  the  territory  subdued,  was  ever  after 
necessary.  His  ready  discernment  of  the  talents  of 
General  Jackson,  who,  at  a  very  early  period,  was 
pointed  out  to  the  Executive  as  an  Officer,  in  the  high- 
est degree,  meriting  the  confidence  of  Government, 
has  proved  of  incalculable  advantage  to  his  country, 
while  the  happy  employment  of  them,  by  increasing 
his  ardour  for  enter|)rise,  and  skill  in  turning,  to  profit 
every  possible  advantage,  led  to  one  of  the  most  bril- 
liant victories  that  ever  adorned  the  annals  of  the 
world. 


JACKSON.  115 


GENERAL  JACKSON. 

It  is  impossible  for  me  to  name  this  distinguished 
character,  without  offering  to  his  merits,  the  tribute  of 
applause  so  justly  their  due.  Carolina  proudly  num- 
bers him  among  her  Sons.  The  world  allow  him  a 
degree  of  excellence,  rarely  attained,  and  never 
surpassed  by  the  military  characters  of  the  highest 
celebrity.  To  speak  of  him  with  enthusiasm,  is  con- 
sistent both  with  justice  and  duty.  My  object,  in  giving 
publicity  to  the  Anecdotes  I  would  record,  is,  avow- 
edly, to  honour  the  Fathers  of  our  Revolution,  and  to 
excite  that  emulation  in  their  descendants,  to  imitate 
their  example,  that  will  best  secure  the  benefits  re- 
sulting from  their  valour,  and  their  virtues.  * 

General  Jackson,  at  a  very  early  period  of  life, 
aspired  to  obtain  celebrity.  At  the  age  of  fourteen, 
he  commenced  his  military  career,  and  shared  the 
glory  of  the  well-fought  action  at  Stono.  Made  a 
prisoner  in  his  native  settlement  at  the  Waxaws, 
shortly  after  tlie  surrender  of  Charleston,  his  manly 
opposition  to  the  orders  of  an  unfeeling  tyrant,  who 
wished  to  impose  on  him  the  duties  of  a  hireling,  gave 
superior  claims  to  applause.  Wounds  were  inflicted, 
and  increase  given  to  persecution,  but  without  effecting 
either  the  steadiness  of  his  principles,  or  firmness  of 
his  resolution.  He  told  his  oppressor-^"  You  may 
destroy,  but  can  never  bend  me  to  submission."* 

Pre-eminently  distinguished  by  services  of  a  later 
period,  there  is  an  emanation  of  glory,  giving  bril- 
liancy to  his  achievements,  which  renders  him  pecu- 


'  The  severity  of  his  treatment,  arose  from  bis  refusal  to  obey  an  OfBcer  who 
ordered  him  to  clean  his  boots  The  spirit  of  tlie  youth,  wiiich  ought  to  have 
©ailed  forth  applause,  excited  no  sentiment,  but  that  of  unbridled  resentment. 


116  JACKSON. 

liarly  the  object  of  admiration.  Of  the  prudence  of 
his  conduct,  and  ardour  of  his  intrepidity,  when  placed 
in  command,  1  consider  it  altogether  unnecessary  to 
speak,  as  they  transcend  all  praise.  But,  there  are 
traits  in  his  character,  which,  though  hitherto  but  little 
noticed,  should  be  more  particularly  detailed,  and 
brought  into  view.  He  has,  in  all  his  conversations, 
and  on  every  occasion,  appeared  a  stranger  to  the 
arrogance  too  frequently  resulting  from  success,  nor 
been  tempted  by  it,  to  deny  his  obligations  to  the  Com- 
mander in  Chief,  of  whom  he  ever  speaks  with  warm 
affection,  candidly  acknowledging,  that  to  a  steady 
adherence  to  his  well  arranged  plans,  and  able  advice, 
is  greatly  to  be  attributed,  the  success  that  brought  the 
war  to  so  speedy,  and  happy  a  termination.  But,  for 
no  part  of  his  conduct  do  I  consider  him  more  entitled 
to  praise,  than  for  his  steadiness  in  resisting  the  recom- 
inendation  of  Governor  Blount,  in  the  campaign  of 
1813,  who  advised  him  to  discharge  a  part  of  his 
force,  quit  the  country  he  had  subdued,  and  to  retire 
for  security  to  the  settlements.  The  Governor  hesi- 
tated with  regard  to  the  exertions  of  power,  and  feared 
reproach  in  enforcing  orders,  which,  when  given,  had 
been  altogether  neglected,  or  disobeyed.  I  admire 
the  manly  reply  of  General  Jackson  !  I  admire  the 
Republican  feeling  that  laid  aside  all  the  formalities  of 
ceremony,  and  taught  him,  in  the  firm  language  of 
truth,  to  say  to  the  Governor — "  If  you  would  pre- 
serve your  reputation,  you  must  take  a  determined 
course,  regardless  of  the  applause  or  censure  of  the 
populace,  and  of  the  forebodings  of  that  dastardly  and 
designing  crew,  who,  at  a  time  like  this,  continually 
clamour  in  your  ears.  The  very  wretches  who  now 
beset  you  with  evil  council,  will  be  the  first,  should 
the  measure  which  they  recommend,  eventuate  in 
disaster,  to  call  down  implications  on  your  head,  and 
bad  you  with  reproaches.     Your  country  is  in  danger; 


JACKSON.  117 

apply  its  resources  to  its  defence  !  Can  any  course  be 
more  plain  ?  There  are  times  when  it  is  highly  cri- 
minal to  shrink  from  responsibility,  or  scruple  about 
the  exercise  of  our  powers.  There  are  times  when 
we  must  disregard  punctilious  etiquette,  and  think 
only  of  serving  our  country.  The  Commander  in 
Chief,  General  Pinckney,  supposes  me  prepared  for 
renewed  operations.  Shall  I  violate  the  orders  of  my 
superior  Officer,  and  evince  a  willingness  to  defeat  the 
purposes  of  my  Government  ?  Shall  I  abandon  a 
conquest  thus  far  made,  and  deliver  up  the  friendly 
Creeks  and  Cherokees,  who,  relying  on  our  protec- 
tion, have  espoused  our  cause,  and  aided  us  with  their 
arms  ?  What  !  retrograde  under  such  circumstances  ? 
I  will  perish  first !  I  will  do  my  duty — I  will  hold 
the  posts  that  I  have  established,  until  ordered  to 
abandon  them  by  the  Commanding  General,  or  die  in 
the  struggle  !  1  would  not  seek  to  preserve  life  at  the 
expense  of  reputation  !  What  then  is  to  be  done  ? 
I  will  tell  you  what !  You  have  only  to  act  with  the 
energy  and  decision  that  the  crisis  demands,  and  all 
will  be  well!  Send  me  a  force  engaged  for  six  months, 
and  I  will  answer  for  the  result  ;  but,  withliold  it,  and 
all  is  lost — the  reputation  of  the  State,  and  yours,  and 
mine  along  with  it." 

This  was,  indeed,  the  language  of  a  patriotic  heart ; 
nor  did  he  swerve  from  it,  but  nobly  persisting  in  his 
resolution — fought — was  victorious,  and  gloriously 
terminated  the  Indian  War.  Yet,  in  how  much  higher 
a  degree  must  his  resentments  have  been  excited,  and 
patience  tortured,  when,  at  a 'later  period  on  his 
approach  to  Orleans,  where  he  was  appointed  to  com- 
mand, the  Governor  informed  hiui — "  That  the  Legis- 
lature, instead  of  discharging  with  alacrity,  diligence, 
and  good  faith,  the  duties  which  had  been  confided  to 
them  by  their  constituents,  had,  under  the  garb  of 
privilege,  endeavoured  to  mar  the  execution  of  mea- 


118  JACKSOiN. 

sures  the  most  salutary  for  the  defence  of  the  coun- 
try." And  when  he  found,  that  on  a  requisition  for 
their  services,  the  militia  resolutely  resisted  the  call  to 
rise  in  its  defence,  his  indignation  was  roused  to  the 
highest  pitch  ;  and  feeling  conviction,  that  without  a 
change  of  system,  and  the  adoption  of  measures,  ener- 
getic in  proportion  to  the  danger  which  threatened, 
that  the  country  could  not  be  saved,  he  promptly, 
and  with  decision,  proclaimed  Martial  Law,  calling  on 
every  individual,  under  the  threat  of  the  heaviest 
penalties  in  case  of  refusal,  to  step  forward  and  defend 
his  country.  "  He  thought,  at  such  a  moment,  (a 
powerful,  ambitious,  and  enterprising  enemy  ready  to 
invade  the  soil)  constitutional  forms  should  be  sus- 
pended for  the  preservation  of  constitutional  rights; 
and  that  there  could  be  no  question,  whether  it  was 
better  to  depart  for  a  moment,  from  the  enjoyment  of 
our  dearest  priviliges,  or  have  them  wrested  from  us 
for  ever."  It  is  not  for  me  to  detail  the  discussions 
which  followed,  nor  the  irritation  eventuating  from 
them,  betwixt  the  civil  and  military  power.  I  look  to 
results.  Disaffection  was  paralized.  The  spirit  of 
the  Commander  was  communicated  to  every  division 
of  the  army.  Hope  and  confidence  animated  every 
bosom.  General  Jackson  knew,  as  he  himself  ex- 
pressed it — "  That  he  possessed  the  best  defence,  a 
rampart  of  high-minded  and  brave  men."  He  knew, 
that  his  well-tried  troops  were  equal  to  the  most 
daring  enterprises;  and  that  the  less  experienced  levies 
were  ambitious  to  emulate  their  glory.  He  led  them 
to  action  with  success,  and  when  in  turn  assailed, 
defended  his  lines  with  a  degree  of  skill,  and  display 
of  intrepidity,  that  added  a  victory  to  the  annals  of 
his  country,  that  will,  to  the  end  of  time,  do  it  honour, 
while  it  exalts  his  name  to  immortality.  The  blessings 
of  a  grateful  nation,  are  the  reward  of  Jackson. 


JACKSON.  119 

It  may,  perhaps,  be  considered  as  a  departure  from 
my  original  plan,  to  give  the  details  of  an  action  of  a 
recent  date.  But,  the  battle  of  the  23d  of  December, 
1814,  fought  at  night  before  New  Orleans,  appears  to 
me  so  highly  characteristic  of  the  clear  perceptions 
and  intrepidity  of  General  Jackson,  and  of  such  mo- 
mentous importance,  by  its  influence  on  subsequent 
events,  that  I  shall  present  it  as  communicated  to  me, 
by  the  gallant  Lieutenant  Colonel  Hayne,  whose  ser- 
vices on  that,  and  every  other  occasion,  cannot  be  too 
highly  commended. 


A  brief  account  of  the  battle  that  took  place  before  New  Orleans, 
on  the  night  of  the  23d  December,  1814,  m-itten  by  Colonel 
Arthur  P.  Hayne,  at  the  particular  request  of  Major  General 
Andrew  Jackson. 

About  2  o'clock,  P.  M,  on  Saturday,  the  23d  of  December, 
1814,  his  Excellency  the  Commander  in  Chief,  was  informed  by 
Major  Tatam,  that  the  enemy  had  effected  a  landing  at  the  extreme 
point  of  Villery's  canal,  and  from  thence  had  reached  the  left  bank  of 
the  Mississippi,  six  miles  below  the  city  of  New  Orleans.  The 
Commander  in  Chief,  with  much  foresight,  had  anticipated  the  pro- 
bability of  an  attack  from  that  quarter,  and  had,  but  one  hour  before, 
ordered  five  hundred  men,  under  the  command  of  Inspector  General 
Hayne,  to  take  post  on  Villery's  Canal.  Major  Tatam  and  Mr. 
Latour,  had  been  ordered  to  precede  this  command,  for  the  purpose 
of  reconnoitermg.  They  were  in  the  execution  of  this  order,  when 
to  their  astonishment,  and  that  of  the  whole  country,  they  found  the 
British  in  the  possession  of  the  left  bank  of  the  Mississippi,  only  six 
miles  below  the  City,  In  conformity  with  previous  arrangements, 
and  with  which  commandants  of  corps  were  made  acquainted,  sig- 
nal guns  were  fired,  and  all  the  troops  of  the  different  cantonments 
were  placed  under  arms,  and  ready  to  move  against  the  enemy.  The 
Commander  in  Chief,  whose  firmness  in  danger,  and  promptness  in 


120  JACKSON. 

execution,  eminently  distingush  him,  with  a  calmness  and  intrepidity 
which  all  must  remember,  determined  to  meet  the  enemy. 

But  he  was  well  aware,  from  the  manner  in  which  his  army  was 
cantoned,  that  the  City  might  be  surprised  before  he  was  able  to  con- 
centrate his  forces.  In  order,  therefore,  to  frustrate  such  an  event, 
he  determined  to  push  the  light  troops  in  advance.  These  troops 
consisted  of  the  IMississippi  dragoons,  and  two  companies  of  rifle- 
men.* lie  had  orders  to  proceed  forthwith  against  the  enemy,  to 
reconnoitre  his  position,  ascertain  his  strength,  and  if  possible,  to 
check  his  advance,  so  as  to  enable  the  Commander  in  Chief  to  collect 
and  concentrate  his  forces.  This  duty  was  promptly  performed,  and 
without  meeting  witli  any  opposition.  It  was  supposed,  that  the 
enemy's  forces  amounted  to  two  thousand  men,  and  a  report  to  that 
effect  was  made  to  the  Commander  in  Chief.  The  troops  in  ad- 
vance then  halted  within  a  short  distance  of  the  enemy,  and  were 
joined  by  the  main  body  of  the  army,  a  little  after  sunset.  It  was 
about  this  time  that  the  order  for  battle  was  given,  and  the  plan  of 
attack  explained.  Commodore  Patterson  and  Captain  Henly 
were  directed  to  drop  down  the  River  with  the  schooner  Caroline^ 
come  to  anchor  opposite  the  enemy's  position,  and  at  half-past  seven 
o'clock,  to  bring  on  the  action.  The  main  army,  under  the  imme- 
diate direction  of  the  Commander  in  Chief,  was  to  attack  him  in 
front  at  eight  o'clock  ;  and  Brigadier  General  Coffee's  mounted 
riflemen,  supported  by  Major  Hinds'  dragoons,  had  orders  to  turn 
his  flank  and  gain  his  rear. 

The  following  was  the  disposition  of  the  main  army  : — The  ad- 
vance guard,  led  on  by  Lieutenant  M'Clelland,  had  orders  to 
proceed  in  as  wide  a  column  as  the  road  would  admit,  and 
to  attack  the  enemy's  main  picket,  which  was  only  three  hun- 
dred j'ards  in  advance.  lie  was  also  charged  to  make  his  men 
reserve  their  fire,  to  wait  that  of  the  enemy,  and  to  continue  his  attack 
for  fifteen  or  twenty  minutes,  as  it  would  take  that  time  to  enable  the 
artillery,  whose  position  was  immediately  in  rear  of  the  advance,  to 
form  battery.  After  execution  of  this  order,  the  advance  was  to 
form  in  rear  of  the  artillery. 

*  "  To  prevent  this,  Colonel  Hayne,  with  two  companies  of  riflemen,  and 
the  Mississippi  dragoons,  were  sent  forward,  to  reconnoitre  their  camp,  learn 
their  position,  and  in  the  event  tiiey  were  found  advancing,  to  harass  and 
oppose  them  at  every  step,  until  the  main  body  should  arrive." — Lift  of  Jack- 
son, p.  2S7. 


JACKSON.  121 

Our  main  line  was  only  separated  from  the  advance  and  the  artil- 
lery, by  a  post  and  rail  fence.  It  was  composed  of  the  7th  and  44th 
regiments  of  regulars,  and  Majors  Planche's  and  Daquirs'  city 
volunteers.  Tliese  troops  were  drawn  up  in  the  avenue  leading  to 
La  Rond's  house,  and  had  orders  to  break  off  by  double  fdes,  from 
the  heads  of  companies,  and  in  that  order  to  proceed  against  the 
enemy,  dress  to  the  right  by  the  head  of  the  artillery  column,  and 
thus  to  advance  till  our  men  should  come  in  contact  with  the  enerny. 
The  line  of  battle  was  then  to  be  promptly  formed,  by  filing  upon 
the  right  of  companies. 

The  enemy's  poshion  was  some  distance  in  advance  of  our  line, 
his  right  towards  the  swamp,  his  left  resting  on  the  Mississippi,  with 
a  chain  of  sentinels  very  closely  posted  in  front  of  his  camp,  sup- 
ported by  strong  pickets. 

Our  arrangements  preparatory  to  action  being  all  complete,  and 
every  thing  ready,  at  half-past  seven  o'clock  the  battle  was  brought  on 
by  Commodore  Patterson  and  Captain  Henly.  This  attack  pro- 
duced a  very  happy  diversion  in  our  favour,  causing  much  confusion 
in  the  enemy's  ranks,  and  compelling  him  to  throw  his  whole  lin€ 
immediately  under  the  Levee,  thereby  exposing  his  right  flank  to  our 
main  army,  and  liis  rear  to  Brigadier  General  Coffee's  command. 
At  eight  o'clock,  the  main  army  advanced  in  line  of  battle  upon  the 
right  flank  of  the  enemy,  causing  him  to  place  his  army  somewhat 
in  the  form  of  a  crotchet,  in  order  to  meet  our  attack,  and  still  oppose 
the  Caroline.  At  about  half-past  eight  o'clock,  Brigadier  General 
Coffee's  men  commenced  their  attack,  taking  the  eneni}^  in  right 
flank  and  rear,  and  involving  him  in  much  confusion.  The  firing  of 
General  Coffee's  command  was  distinctly  heard  by  our  men.  At 
about  nine  o'clock,  the  engagement  became  general.  After  an  ob- 
stinate conflict  of  about  one  hour,  the  enemy  was  drawn  from  all  ()f 
his  positions.  The  heavy  smoke  occasioned  by  excessive  fire,  and  a 
thick  fog,  induced  the  Commander  in  Chief  to  resume  his  former 
position,  otherwise  there  can  be  very  little  doubt,  that  we  would  have 
succeeded  in  capturing  the  whole  army  of  the  enemy.  Our  series  of 
attacks,  in  regular  succession,  had  involved  their  ranks  in  so  much 
confusion,  that  tluy  were  unable  to  recover  themselves.  Our  loss 
was  great,  but  that  of  the  enemy  was  much  more  severe. 

In  the  midst  of  Brigadier  General  Coffee's  engagement,  Colonel 
Rueben  Kemper,  a  man  of  sound  and  vigorous  mind,  and  of  un- 
common coolness,  courage,  and  perseverence.  found  himself  almost 

16 


122  JACKSON. 

surrounded  by  the  enemy.  Perceiving  his  perilous  situation,  and  that 
bis  only  chance  of  escape  was  in  stratagem,  he  exclaimed  in  an 
audible  voice,  to  a  group  of  the  enemy — "  What  the  Devil  are  you 
doing  there  ?  Where  is  your  regiment  ?  Come  along  with  me 
immediately  !"  and  they  all  followed  him  into  tlie  American  lines, 
and  were  made  prisoners. 

Ensign  Leach  also  deserves  particular  mention.  He  received  a 
severe  and  dangerous  wound  through  the  body,  but  never  quitted  his 
post  till  victory  was  secured.  He  then  retired  to  the  City  ;  but  the 
first  gun  that  was  fired  in  the  lines,  recalled  him  to  the  post  of  dan- 
ger, where  he  remained  till  the  final  overthrow  of  the  enemy. 

The  Americans  engaged  in  the  battle,  may  be  estimated  at  about 
fifteen  hundred  regulars  and  irregulars  ;  that  of  the  British  at  about 
five  thousand. 

The  Commander  in  Chief,  apprehending  a  double  attack,  by  way 
of  Chef-Monteur,  directed  Major  General  Carroll  to  take  post  on 
the  Gentilly  road. 

The  result  of  the  battle  was  the  saving  of  New-Orleans.  The 
pride  of  an  arrogant  foe  was  humbled,  the  first  time  that  he  dared  to 
profane  the  soil  of  Freedom  by  his  hostile  tread.  It  produced  con- 
fidence in  our  ranks,  established  unanimity,  and  at  once  crushed  dis- 
affection. It  is  thought  to  be  the  most  finished  battle  fought  during 
the  late  war.  The  ensemble  of  the  general  movement,  was  main- 
tained throughout  the  whole  affair.  It  was  not  a  mere  exertion  of 
physical  strength,  as  is  often  the  case  ;  but  in  every  stage  of  it,  we 
clearly  perceive  the  effects  produced  by  the  admirable  arrangements 
of  the  Commander  in  Chief  j  and  like  Caesar,  he  might  have  ex- 
claimed— '■'•  Vini,  vidi,  viciJ' 


CHARACTER  AND  CONDUCT  OF  THE  OFFICERS  OF 
THE  LEGION. 


1  feel  too  proud  of  the  partial  friendship  experienced  from  my  brother 
Officers  of  the  Legion,  not  to  be  ambitious,  in  some  degree,  to 
acquit  myself  of  my  debt  of  gratitude,  by  recording  the  successes 
resulting  from  their  exemplary  good  conduct,  and  the  achievements 
that  gave  to  many  of  them,  peculiar  claims  to  celebrity.  Where 
merited  praise  is  not  bestowed,  I  can  truly  aver,  that  it  will  not 
proceed  from  intentional  neglect.  The  title  of  most  of  them  to 
distinction,  has  been  repeatedly  acknowledged  by  their  General, 
and  confirmed  by  the  flattering  concurrence  of  their  confederates 
in  arms.  I  can  only  speak  particularly  of  those  with  whom  I  was 
most  familiar,  and  best  acquainted.  Major  John  Rudolph,  the 
Captains  Archeji  and  Hukd,  the  facetious  Captain  Carns,  bold  in 
action,  in  quarters  the  delight  of  his  associates  ;  George  Carring- 
TON,  Winston,  Snowden,  Lovell,  Power,  Harrison,  Luns- 
ford,  and  Jordan,  performed  every  duty  with  alacrity,  and  with 
the  highest  advantage  to  the  service. 

CAPTAIN  JOSEPH  EGGLESTON. 

CAVALRY. 

This  meritorious  Officer  was  endowed  with  superior 
powers  of  mind,  but  decidedly  better  qualified  to  gain 
celebrity  in  the  cabinet,  than  in  the  field.  He  had  the 
most  perfect  knowledge  of  duty,  and  was  ever  prompt 
in  its  performance  ;  but  the  spirit  of  enterprise  parti- 
cularly requisite  in  a  Partisan,  was  foreign  to  his 
nature.  There  occurred,  however,  one  rencontre  with 
the  enemy,  in  which  he  acquired  distinction,  both  for 


124  EGGLESTON. 

talent  and  intrepidity.  On  the  retreat  of  tlie  British 
army  from  Ninety-Six,  Lee,  knowing  that  the  rich 
settlement  South  of  Fridig's  Ferry,  could  alone  afford 
the  forage  which  they  would  require,  determined  to 
avail  himself  of  the  probable  chance  of  striking  a 
blow,  which  should  paralyze  every  future  movement, 
Eggleston  was  detached  for  the  purpose,  to  the  ex- 
pected scene  of  action,  and  choosing  an  advantageous 
position,  anxiously  awaited  their  approach.  A  party 
of  sixty  British  dragoons,  and  some  for  iging  wagons 
speedily  appeared,  evidently  intending  to  reach  the 
very  farm  he  occupied.  The  charge  was  immediately 
sounded.  The  Legionary  Cavalry  rushed  forward 
with  irresisible  impetuosity,  tlie  enemy  were  at  once 
})ut  to  rout,  the  wagons  taken,  and  forty-iive  dragoons 
brought  off  prisoners,  without  tlie  loss  of  a  single 
man. 

It  is  painful  to  state,  though  the  imputation  of  blame 
rests  not  on  him,  that  the  opportunity  of  totally  des- 
troying the  British  cavalry  at  Eataw  was  lost,  by  his 
having,  from  his  ardour  to  perform  his  duty,  obeyed  an 
unanthorized  order  to  engage.  Foiled,  and  compelled 
to  retire,  when  summoned  to  advance  by  Lee,  he  was 
too  far  distant  to  su|)port  Armstrong,  who  was  ready 
to  engage,  but  unequal  witii  a  single  trooi)  to  meet  the 
superior  force  of  Coffin.  On  the  day  following  the 
battle,  however,  he  rendered  very  essential  service, 
charging  the  retiring  enemy,  and  taking  from  them 
several  wagons  containing  stores  and  baggage.  On 
this  occasion,  his  horse  was  killed  under  him — he 
himself  escaping  without  injury,  though  five  balls 
pierced  his  clothes  and  equipments. 

At  the  conclusion  of  the  war,  turning  his  attention 
to  literary  pursuits,  he  was  returned  a  Member  of 
Congress,  in  which  respectable  body  he  obtained  ap- 
plause and  distinction. 


EGGLESTON.  125 

Of  warm  and  impatient  temper,  while  yet  in  the 
flower  of  his  age,  tormented  by  the  irritation  of  a  dis- 
ordered leg,  and  insisting  on  amputation,  mortification 
ensued,  which  caused  his  immediate  and  untimely 
dissolution. 


CAPTAIN  JAMES  ARMSTRONG. 

CAVALRY. 

There  was  no  Officer  in  the  service  of  the  United 
Statt-s,  whose  feats  of  daring  intrei)idity,  had  made  a 
more  salutary  impression  on  the  minds  of  the  enemy, 
than  those  of  Armstrong  of  the  Legion.  The  British 
did  justice  to  his  merits  ;  they  admired  his  valour  ; 
they  gratefully  acknowledged  his  humanity  ;  and  when 
he,  by  an  accident,  became  their  prisoner,  behaved 
towards  him  with  marked  and  flattering  attention. 
Had  they  displayed  the  same  generous  conduct  towards 
others,  which  they  exercised  towards  him,  the  aspe- 
rities of  the  war  would  have  been  softened,  and  noth- 
ing heard  of  those  acts  of  intemperate  violence,  which 
debased  their  character  as  men. 

The  details  of  his  achievements  are  to  be  met  with 
in  every  history  of  the  war  ;  it  would  be  superfluous 
again  to  repeat  them.  But,  one  instance  of  his  atten- 
tion to  a  brave  and  unfortunate  Soldier,  has  not,  in  my 
judgment,  been  sufficiently  dwelt  upon.  Lieutenant 
Colonel  Lee  was  certainly  a  man  of  strong  prejudices  ; 
but,  where  admiration  was  excited  towards  a  gallant 
enemy,  his  generosity  was  unbounded.  Facinated  by 
the  consummate  skill  and  bravery  of  Colonel  Browne, 
in  the  defence  of  his  post  at  Augusta,  his  resolution 
was  immediately  fixed,  to  save  him  from  the  fury  of 
an  exasperated  population,  and  the  better  to  eflect  ft, 


126  ARMSTRONG. 

put  hiai  under  the  safeguard  of  Armstrong,  to  conduct 
him  to  Savannah.  The  precaution  was  the  more 
necessary,  as  the  inveteracy  of  party,  in  the  neishbour- 
hood  of  Augusta,  had  given  birth  to  a  war  of  exter- 
mination, and  he  saw  that  without  such  interposition 
a  gallant  Soldier,  who  had  committed  himself  to  his 
enemy,  on  their  plighted  faith,  would  otherwise  have 
been  sacrificed.  Colonel  Grierson  of  the  British 
militia,  had  already  fallen  by  an  unknown  hand  ;  and 
to  have  risked  a  repetition  of  the  crime,  would  have 
subjected  the  victorious  commanders  to  merited  censure 
and  reproach. 

I  have  often  heard  the  gallant  Armstrong  declare, 
that  he  never  had,  in  his  own  opinion,  encountered 
equal  peril  with  that  which  he  experienced  on  this 
trying  occasion.  At  every  turn  preparation  was  made 
for  death — in  every  individual  who  approached,  was 
seen  the  eager  wish  to  destroy.  Resentment  was  ex- 
cited to  the  highest  pitch,  and  called  aloud  to  be 
appeased  by  blood.  Yet,  by  dint  of  good  management, 
by  the  gentleness  of  persuasion — by  forcibly  pourtray- 
ing  t!ie  duty  of  humanity  to  a  captured  and  unresisting 
foe,  and  occasionally  well  applied  threats,  he  saved  the 
contemplated  victim,  and  delivered  him  in  safety  to 
his  friends  in  Savannah. 

A  remarkable  scene  is  said,  by  Dr.  Ramsay,  to  have 
occurred  on  this  occasion,  which  well  deserves  to  be 
recorded,  as  exemplifying  the  firmness  of  a  female, 
Jabouring  under  the  deepest  affliction  of  grief.  Passing 
through  the  settlement  where  the  most  wanton  waste 
had  recently  been  made  by  the  British,  both  of  lives 
and  property,  a  Mrs.  M'Koy,  having  obtained  per- 
mission to  speak  with  Colonel  Browne,  addressed  him 
in  words  to  the  following  effect  : — "  Colonel  Browne, 
in  the  late  day  of  your  prosperity,  I  visited  your 
camp,  and  on  my  knees  supplicated  for  the  life  of  my 
son— but  you    were  deaf  to  my  intreaties  !       You 


ARMSTRONG.  r27 

hanged  him,  though  a  beardless  youth,  before  my  face. 
Tliese  eyes  have  seen  him  scalped  by  the  savages  under 
your  immediate  command,  and  for  no  better  reason 
than  that  his  name  was  M'Koy.  As  you  are  a  pri- 
soner to  the  leaders  of  my  country,  for  the  present  I 
lay  aside  all  thoughts  of  revenge  :  but,  when  you 
resume  you  sword,  I  will  go  five  hundred  miles  to 
demand  satisfaction  at  the  point  of  it,  for  the  murder 
of  my  son." 

While  Armstrong  remained  a  prisoner,  he  was  treat- 
ed, as  I  have  stated,  with  distinguished  politeness. 
To  Colonel  Thompson,  afterwards  Count  Rumford,  I 
have  heard  him  express  great  obligation ;  and  still 
more  to  Commodore  Sweeny,  whose  attentions  were 
such,  as  none  but  a  generous  enemy  could  have  known 
to  bestow.  I  have  only  to  add,  that  ever  high  in  the 
esteem  and  affection  of  his  associates,  admired  and 
respected  in  every  society,  he  lived  beloved,  and  died 
lamented. 


CAPTAIN  O'NEAL. 

CAVALRY. 

O'Neal  was  one  of  the  Officers  of  the  Legion, 
who  rose  to  rank  and  consideration  by  the  force  of 
extraordinary  merit.  He  entered  the  army  a  private 
trooper  in  Bland's  regiment,  and  was  one  of  a  gallant 
band  who,  when  Captain  Henry  Lee  was  suri)rised  at 
the  Spread-Eagle  Tavern,  near  Philadelphia,  reso- 
lutely defended  the  position  against  the  whole  of  the 
British  cavalry,  and  ultimately  compelled  them  to 
retire.  Lee,  on  this  occasion,  addressing  his  com- 
panions, and  strenuously  urging  them  rather  to  die 
than  surrender,  added — "  Henceforth,  I  consider  the 
fortune  of   every  individual    present,  as   inseparably 


128  O'NEAL. 

connected  with  my  own  !  If  we  fall,  we  will  fall  like 
brothers  !  If  successful  in  repelling  the  enem}',  (and 
it  needs  but  a  trifling  exertion  of  your  energies  to  effect 
it)  my  fortune  and  my  interest  shall  be  uniformly  em- 
ployed to  increase  your  comforts,  and  secure  your 
promotion."  Nor  did  he  ever  swerve  from  his  pro- 
mise. Appointed,  shortly  after,  with  the  rank  of 
Major,  to  the  command  of  a  corps  of  horse,  O'Neal 
and  Winston,  another  of  his  faithful  adherents,  re- 
ceived commissions,  and  to  the  Inst  hour  of  the  war, 
by  uniform  steadiness  of  conduct,  and  exemplary 
intrepidity,  gained  increase  of  reputation.  It  was  said, 
on  this  occasion,  that  Tarleton,  making  his  first  essay 
as  a  military  man,  but  for  the  accidental  snapping  of 
O'Neal's  carbine,  would  have  fallen  a  victim  to  a  bold 
etfort,  which  he  made  to  enter  by  a  window  at  which 
he  was  posted,  the  muzzle  of  the  piece  being,  at  the 
time,  within  a  foot  of  his  head.  Tarleton  behaved 
with  great  calmness  ;  for,  looking  up,  he  said  with  a 
smile,  "  You  have  missed  it,  my  lad,  for  this  time  ;" 
and  wheeling  his  horse,  joined  his  companions,  who, 
deceived  by  a  false  alarm,  were  retiring  with  precipi- 
tation. 


CAPTAIN  iMICHAEL  RUDOLPH. 

INFANTRY^ 

TiiEiu:  was  not,  in  the  Southern  Army,  an  Officer 
of  the  same  grade,  whose  activity  and  daring  spirit 
produced  such  essential  advantages  to  the  service  as 
Micliacl  Rudolph  ;  yet,  in  the  page  of  history  he  is 
scarcely  named.  I  never  knew  a  man,  so  strictly  in- 
forcing  the  observance  of  disci])line,  who,  at  the  same 
time,  maintained    so  pcri'ect  an   ascendancy  over  the 


RUDOLPH.  129 

affections  of  his  men.  He  was  their  idol  ;  and  such 
was  their  confidence  in  his  talents  and  intrepidity,  that 
no  enterprise,  however  hazardous,  could  be  proposed, 
where  he  was  to  be  the  leader,  but  every  individual  in 
the  regiment  became  anxious  to  obtain  a  preference  of 
service. 

His  statue  was  diminitive  ;  but  from  the  energy  of 
his  mind,  and  personal  activity,  his  powers  were 
gigantic. 

Fully  to  detail  his  services,  is  beyond  my  ability ; 
but  that  he  merited  the  grateful  applause  of  his  coun- 
try, must  be  allowed,  when  it  is  recollected,  that  he 
led  the  forlorn  hope,  when  the  post  at  Paulus'  Hook, 
in  full  view  of  the  British  Garrison  at  New  York,  was 
surprised  and  carried  by  Lee  ;  and  that  the  same  peri- 
lous command  was  assigned  him  at  the  storming  of  the 
Stockade  Fort  at  Ninety-Six;  that  he  bore  a  pre- 
eminently distinguished  part  in  conducting  the  sieges 
of  the  several  Forts  reduced  in  the  interior  country, 
and  particularly  directed  that  against  Fort  Cornwallis 
at  Augusta ;  that  at  Guilford  his  conduct  was  highly 
applauded,  and  that  he  was  conspicuous  from  his  ex- 
emplary ardour,  leading  the  charge  with  the  bayonet, 
which  broke  the  British  line  at  Eutaw ;  that  shortly 
previous  to  the  evacuation  of  Charleston,  he,  with 
sixteen  men,  took  and  burnt  the  Galley  protecting  the 
left  of  the  British  line  at  the  Quarter  House,  bringing  off 
twenty-six  prisoners;  and  that,  finally,  about  the  same 
period,  fighting  hand  to  hand,  he  dismounted  and  made 
a  prisoner  of  one  of  the  boldest  black  dragoons  em- 
ployed by  the  enemy. 

Such  were  the  Revolutionary  services  of  the  Cap- 
tain, under  whose  auspices  I  entered  the  army,  and 
whose  virtues  were  no  less  estimable  than  his  public 
utility 

At  a  later  period  in  the  war,  with,  the  Western  In- 
dians, he  served  with  distinguished  reputation ;  but, 

17 


130  RUDOLPH. 

anxious  to  provide  for  an  increasing  family,  he  left  the 
service  to  engage  in  trade,  and  sailing  on  a  voyage  of 
speculation  to  the  West  Indies,  was  heard  of  no  more. 


CAPTAIN  HANDY. 

INFANTRY. 

Animated  by  principles  as  pure  and  patriotic,  Cap- 
tian  Handy  gained  distinction  by  his  zealous  perform- 
ance of  every  duty,  and  the  invincible  coolness  with 
which  he  encountered  danger.  His  activity  contributed 
very  essentially,  to  the  reduction  of  several  of  the  Forts 
held  by  the  enemy  in  the  interior  country,  particularly 
that  at  Augusta,  where  his  vigorous  charge  on  the 
British,  who  had,  by  a  bold  sally,  actually  possessed 
themselves  of  the  trenches  of  the  besiegers,  caused 
their  expulsion,  and  precipitate  retreat  into  their  posts, 
from  whence  they  never  ventured  again.  On  the  re- 
treat of  Lord  Rawdon  from  Ninety-Six,  while  Lee  was 
endeavouring  to  gain  his  front.  Handy,  deviating  a  few 
paces  from  his  command,  was  seized  and  carried  to  a 
distance  by  a  party  of  banditti,  who  robbed  him  of  his 
watch,  money,  and  every  article  of  his  clothing,  leaving 
him  in  a  state  of  perfect  nudity,  to  find  his  way  back  to 
his  party.  The  appellation  which  I  have  used  is  not 
too  harsh  ;  the  ceremony  of  a  parole  was,  indeed,  in- 
sisted on,  and  given  ;  but  on  application,  at  an  after 
period,  to  the  British  commander  for  the  exchange  of 
Handy,  he  candidly  acknowledged,  that  he  was  not 
known  as  a  prisoner,  and  that  his  captors  must  have 
been  a  set  of  lawless  marauders,  of  whom  the  British 
had  no  knowledge.  Captain  Handy,  again  restored  to 
the  service,  by  patient  endurance  of  all  the  miseries 
and  privations  of* the  last  campaign,  had  great  influ- 


HANDY.  131 

ence  in  tranquillizing  the  minds  of  men,  driven  almost 
to  desperation  by  famine  and  disease.  The  departure 
of  the  enemy,  at  length,  closed  the  scene  of  calamity. 
Handy  led  the  van  of  the  troops  taking  possession 
of  Charleston,  and  having  the  command  of  the  main 
guard,  by  his  arrangement  of  patrols,  and  the  correct 
conduct  of  his  men,  preserved  a  tranquillity  that  could 
scarcely  have  been  expected,  from  Soldiers  so  long 
deprived  of  every  comfort,  who  had  now  a  town,  rich 
in  spoil,  and  many  of  their  most  implacable  enemies, 
altogether  within  their  power.  To  his  credit  I  can 
assert,  that  no  irregularity  was  committed — not  a 
murmur  heard. 


LIEUTENANT  PETER  JOHNSTON. 

INFANTRY. 

Imbibing,  at  a  very  early  period  of  the  Revolu- 
tionary war,  an  enthusiastic  attachment  to  the  cause  of 
Liberty,  and  sensible,  that  the  opinions  of  his  father, 
whose  political  creed  sanctioned  the  pretensions  of 
Britain,  would  militate  against  his  ardent  ambition  to 
serve,  Peter  Johnson,  at  the  age  of  sixteen,  eloped  from 
his  College,  and  avoiding  successfully  the  pursuit  of  his 
tutors,  joined  the  Legion  as  a  volunteer.  His  eager- 
ness to  acquire  military  knowledge,  and  unceasing 
efforts  to  obtain  distinction,  very  speedily  attracted 
attention,  and  obtained  for  him,  the  commission  to 
which  he  aspired,  while  the  whole  tenor  of  his  con- 
duct evinced,  that  it  could  not  have  been  more  judi- 
ciously bestowed.  He  was  brave,  enterprising,  and 
where  duty  called,  exemplary  in  its  performance.  I 
will  give  no  further  proof  of  k,  than  his  intrepid  con- 
duct at  the  siege  of  the  post  at  Wright's  Bluff,  where 


132  JOHNSTON. 

the  removal  of  the  abbatis,  under  the  immediate  fire 
of  the  British  riflemen,  connected  with  the  appalling 
erection  of  the  Mayham  Tower,  struck  the  enemy 
with  so  great  a  panic,  as  to  cause  an  instantaneous 
surrender. 

To  the  end  of  the  war,  he  still  acquired  an  increase 
of  reputation,  and  so  completely  gained  the  favour  of 
the  parent  he  had  offended,  as  to  be  received,  on  his 
return  to  the  domestic  circle  of  his  family,  not  only 
with  affection,  but  pride.  Pursuing  the  study  of  the 
Law,  he  rapidly  obtained  professional  reputation ;  and 
now  promoted  to  a  seat  on  the  bench  of  Judges,  is 
equally  admired  for  the  wisdom  and  justice  of  his 
decrees. 


JOHN  MIDDLETON, 

CORNET    IN    THE    LEGION. 

Of  Middleton,  I  would  speak  with  justice,  equal  to 
his  merit.  It  would,  indeed,  be  a  sacred  duty  were  I 
competent  to  perform  it.  He  was  ever  "  the  man 
nearest  my  heart."  Brought  up  together  from  infancy, 
and  united  in  our  progress  through  life,  by  ties  of  the 
most  disinterested  friendship,  he  was  to  me  as  a  bro- 
ther ;  and  I  can  with  truth  assert,  that  he  never 
obtained  an  honour,  nor  progressed  a  step  in  public 
favour,  which  did  not  occasion,  in  my  bosom,  a  sen- 
sation of  delight,  as  perfect  as  if  the  merit  had  been 
my  own.  Every  attraction  that  could  induce  a  man 
of  less  exalted  feeling,  of  patriotism  less  pure,  to  re- 
main in  England  at  the  commencement  of  hostilities, 
were  held  out  to  him.  Wealth,  connexion,  preferment 
courted  his  acceptance.  A  living  in  the  established 
Church,  of  considerable  amount,  was  his  by  inheri- 


MIDDLETON.  133 

tance  ;  but,  superior  to  every  selfish  consideration,  and 
regarding  the  violated  rights  of  his  country,  as  injuries 
to  his  own  honour,  he  nobly  resolved,  by  the  devotion 
of  his  life  to  her  service,  to  become  her  defender,  and 
ward  off  the  exterminating  blow,  which  the  resent- 
ments of  a  merciless  administration  had  denounced 
against  her.  Quitting  Europe,  and  arriving  safely  on 
the  American  shores,  he  joined  the  Southern  Army, 
and  offering  himself  as  a  volunteer  for  promotion, 
speedily  exhibited  so  many  instances  of  gallantry,  and 
so  great  an  ardour  for  enterprise,  as  to  be  rewarded 
with  a  Cornetcy  in  the  Legion.  No  youthful  can- 
didate for  fame  could  ever,  with  greater  success,  have 
acquired  the  admiration  of  his  superiors,  the  love  of 
the  troops  serving  under  him,  the  perfect  esteem  and 
friendship  of  his  brother  Officers.  His  career  was 
short.  He  but  lived  to  witness  the  expulsion  of  the 
enemy  from  our  Capital,  when  seized  by  a  mortal  dis- 
ease, he  fell  its  victim.  The  regrets  of  every  class  of 
the  community,  affording  the  highest  proof  of  his 
estimable  character,  his  talents,  and  his  virtues, 


CLEMENT  CARRINGTON, 

OF  THE  LEGION  INFANTRY. 

Perhaps  a  more  striking  instance  of  the  irregular 
action  of  fear  upon  the  human  mind,  was  never  ex- 
hibited than  at  the  battle  of  Eutaw.  Early  in  the 
action,  Mr.  Clement  Carrington,  then  a  volunteer  in 
the  Legion,  received  a  wound  which  incapacitated  him 
from  advancing  with  his  corps,  successfully  charging 
the  British  with  the  bayonet.  He  was  leaning  on  his 
spontoon,  anxiously  regarding  the  intrepid  exertions  of 


134  CARRINGTOxX. 

his  companions,  when  a  militiaman,  flying  from  the 
field,  appeared  immediately  in  his  front,  rnshing  di- 
rectly on  hisii  with  the  blind  impetuosity  of  terror. 
Carrington,  finding  that  he  must  be  overturned,  unless 
he  could  arrest  his  flight,  crossed  his  spontoon  over 
his  breast,  the  more  effectually  to  check,  his  progress, 
and  upbraiding  his  cowardice  in  an  authoritative  tone, 
commanded  him  to  halt.  The  terrors  of  the  fugitive 
were  too  highly  excited  to  suffer  control,  he  snatched 
the  weapon  opposed  to  him  from  the  hands  of  Car- 
rington, and  passing  the  blade  of  it  through  his  body, 
with  redoubled  speed  ran  on.  To  the  satisfaction  of 
his  friends,  the  gallant  volunteer  recovered — was 
speedily  commissioned  in  the  Legion,  and  at  the  con- 
clusion of  the  war,  applying  to  the  study  of  the  Law, 
has  since  become  a  distinguished  practitioner  at  the 
bar  of  Virginia. 


DR.  MATTHEW  IRVINE. 

It  would  be  difficult  to  speak  with  encomium  equal 
to  his  merit,  of  this  excellent  Officer.  This  is  no 
flattery  ;  a  cursory  review  of  his  services,  will  afford 
ami)le  proof,  that  he  stands  in  need  of  no  such  aid. 
He  commenced  his  career,  in  the  cause  of  Liberty,  at 
the  very  dawning  of  hostilities,  being  one  of  that  dis- 
tinguished band,  who,  passing  through  the  wilderness, 
and  surmounting  difficulties,  such  as  had  never  before 
been  encountered  by  man,  appeared  suddenly  before 
the  lines  of  Quebec. 

In  the  Middle  States,  he  served  with  great  distinc- 
tion, being  present  at  every  action  of  consequence  in 
the  field,  and  participating  in  many  Partisan  enter- 
prises, highly  creditable  to  the  American  arms.     But, 


IRVINE.  135 

it  was  in  the  Southern  war  that  he  acquired  the  highest 
distinction,  not  only  performing  the  duties  of  his  pro- 
fession with  consummate  skill,  and  exemplary  ten- 
derness and  humanity,  but  frequently  serving  as  an 
able  negotiator  with  the  enemy,  and  constantly  em- 
ployed as  the  confidential  agent  betwixt  the  General 
and  the  Officers,  on  whose  judgment  he  chiefly  relied, 
in  all  consultations  where  important  measures  were 
contemplated,  and  secrecy  regarded  as  essential  to 
success.  His  great  fault,  if  fault  it  can  be  called,  was 
the  too  great  exposure  of  his  person.  Possessing  an 
intrepidity  that  could  not  be  controlled,  he  was  fre- 
quently to  be  found  in  the  hottest  of  the  fight  ;  and  it 
is  well  known,  that  he  was  wounded  at  Quinby,  at 
the  head  of  Armstrong's  troop,  when  his  proper  sta- 
tion was  in  the  rear  of  the  army.  His  military  ser- 
vices ended,  the  celebrity  he  had  acquired,  as  a  skilful 
Surgeon  and  Physician  attended  him  in  private  life  ; 
and  it  is  no  exaggeration  to  say,  that  he  continues  the 
practice  of  his  profession,  with  infinite  advantage  to 
the  public,  and  constant  increase  of  his  own  repu- 
tation. 


DR.  SKINNER. 

I  HAD,  during  the  last  campaign  in  the  South,  con- 
tinued opportunity  of  witnessing  the  eccentricities  of  this 
extraordinary  character;  but  while  I  admired  his  face- 
tious and  entertaining  conversation,  his  exquisite  humour, 
and  occasional  exhibition  of  sportive  or  pointed  irony, 
I  could  not  but  consider  him  as  a  very  dangerous  com- 
panion. Colonel  Lee  has  stated,  that  he  had  a  dire 
objection  to  the  field  of  battle,  yet  in  private  society 
always  ready  for  a  quarrel ;  it  might  be  truly  asserted, 


136  SKINNER. 

that  it  required  infinite  circumspection  not  to  come  to 
points  with  him,  since  he  really  appeared  to  consider 
tihing  as  a  pleasing  pastime,  and  was  (as  an  Irish 
soldier  once  said  of  him)  "  an  honest  fellow,  just  as 
ready  to  fight  as  eat."  In  his  regiment,  and  among 
his  intimates,  he  was  regarded  as  a  privileged  man,  and 
allowed  to  throw  the  shafts  of  his  wit  with  impunity. 
This  was  a  fortunate  circumstance,  as  he  would  at 
any  time  rather  have  risked  the  loss  of  his  friend,  than 
the  opportunity  of  applying  a  satirical  observation  in 
point.  When  first  he  appeared  in  the  lower  country, 
he  wore  a  long  beard  and  huge  fur  cap,  the  latter 
through  necessity,  the  first  from  some  superstitious 
notion,  the  meaning  of  which  it  was  impossible  to 
penetrate.  An  officer,  who  really  esteemed  him,  ask- 
ing him  "  why  he  suffered  his  beard  to  grow  to  such 
an  unusual  length,"  he  tartly  replied,  "  It  is  a  secret, 
Sir,  betwixt  my  God  and  myself,  that  human  imper- 
tinence shall  never  penetrate."  On  a  night  alarm,  at 
Ninety-Six,  as  Colonel  Lee  was  hastening  forward  to 
ascertain  the  cause,  he  met  Skinner  in  full  retreat,  and 
stopping  him,  said,  "what  is  the  matter  Doctor,  whither 
so  fast — not  frightened,  I  hope?"  "No,  Colonel, 
no,"  replied  Skinner,  "  not  absolutely  frightened, 
but,  I  candidly  confess,  most  damnably  alarmed." 
His  strong  resemblance  to  the  character  of  Falstaff, 
which  Colonel  Lee  has  also  noticed,  was  very  remark- 
able. "  He  was  witty  himself,  and  the  cause  of  wit 
in  others."  Like  the  fat  knight,  too,  in  the  calcula- 
tion of  chances,  not  over  scrupulous  in  distinctions 
betwixt  meum  and  tuum;  and,  I  should  decidedly  say, 
in  his  narrations  of  broils  and  battles,  too  much  under 
the  influence  of  Shrewsbury  clock.  I  have  seldom  met 
with  a  man  more  fond  of  good  and  dainty  cheer,  or  a 
more  devoted  idolater  of  good  wine;  but  when  they 
were  not  to  be  met  with,  the  plainest  food,  and  most 
simple  liquor,  were  enjoyed  with  the  highest  relish. 


SKINNER.  X37 

A  lady  of  the  lower  country,  addressing  herself  to  a 
young  officer  who  had  been  much  accustomed  to  enjoy 
every  species  of  luxury,  asked,  "  how  he  had  support- 
ed the  privations  experienced  during  the  last  campaign 
in  the  interior  ?"  he  replied — "  That  hunger  made  a 
simple  rasher  on  the  coals,  as  delicious  as  the  most 
sumptuous  fare,  and  that  where  wine  could  not  be 
obtained,  he  relished  wiiiskey."  "  I  am  grieved,  my 
young  friend,"  said  Skinner,  with  great  gravity,  "  mor- 
tified, beyond  ex[)ression,  to  hear  such  a  declaration 
from  your  lips,  since  it  has  long  been  my  o|)inion,  that 
the  man  who  would  drink  so  mean  a  liquor  as  whiskey 
would  steal." 

In  person,  Skinner  was  not  unlike  the  represen- 
tation generally  given  of  Sancho;  in  his  government, 
exhibiting  extravagant  pretensions  to  state  and  self 
consequence.  Nor  was  he  insensible  to  the  influences 
of  the  tender  passion.  He  not  only  could  love,  but 
he  believed  himself  possessed  of  every  requisite  to  in- 
spire passion,  particularly  priding  himself  upon  a 
roguish  leer  with  the  eye,  that  he  deemed  irresistible. 
When  disencumbered  of  his  beard,  he  was  presented 
at  Sandy  Hill,  (the  point  of  attraction  to  all  the  mili- 
tary) to  Mrs.  Charles  Elliott,  the  amiable  and  bene- 
volent hostess  of  the  mansion.  The  facetious  Captain 
Cams,  who  was  his  friend  on  the  occasion,  indulging 
his  natural  propensity  to  quiz,  pointed  her  out  to 
Skinner,  as  an  object  highly  worth  the  attention  of  a 
man  of  enterprise.  The  bait  was  attractive,  and  he 
bit  at  it  with  the  eagerness  of  a  hungry  gudgeon. 
On  his  first  appearance.  Skinner  had  shown  evident 
marks  of  confusion,  on  account  of  the  uncouth  ap- 
pearance of  his  cap.  Mrs.  Elliott  had  perceived  it, 
and  retiring  for  an  instant,  returned  with  an  elegant 
military  hat,  which  she  placed  on  his  head,  and  grace- 
fully bowing,  run  off.  Skinner  was  mute  with  as- 
tonishment— he  looked   at  the   hat,  and  ut  the  ladv, 

IB  ' 


138  SKINNER. 

and  then  at  the  hat  again,  and  turning  to  his  friend, 
seemed,  in  the  language  of  Falstaff,  to  say —  , 

"  Her  eye  did  seem  to  scorcli  me  like  a  burning  glass." 

The   expression  of  his  countenance  was,  to  Cams, 
a  sufficient  indication  of  the  agitation  of  his  bosom. 
The  hint  was  not  lost.     "  Well,"    he   feelingly  ex- 
claimed, "  if  ever  a  broad  and  palpable  invitation  was 
given,  this,   certainly,   may  be    considered    as  such  ! 
Why,  Skinner,  what  charm,  what  philter  do  you  use  to 
produce    such  havoc  ?"     "  Fie,   fie,"  said  the  enrap- 
tured Doctor,  adjusting    his    dress,    and  rising   upon 
tip-toe,  "  Tempt  me  not,   my  friend,  to  make  myself 
ridiculous.     Mine  is  not  a  figure  to  attract  the  atten- 
tion of  a  fair  lady — it  cannot,  cannot  happen  !"      "  I 
will  not,"  rejoined  Cams,  "  compliment  you.  Skinner, 
on  your  personal  attractions.    You  are  a  man  of  sense, 
a  man  of  discernment,  too  wise  to   be  flattered ;  but 
I  certainly  have  seen    men  less  elegantly  formed  than 
3'our  are,  and  altogether  without  that  je  7ie  sais  quoiy 
so  fascinating,  that   you    pre-eminently    possess ;  be- 
sides, you  have  a  fine,  open,  healthy  countenance,  a 
prepossessing  smile,    and   a  prodigiously  brilliant  and 
piercing  eye."     "  Ah,  ha,"  cried  Skinner,  "  have  you 
discovered  that?    You  are  a  man  of  penetration  !     A 
man  of  taste  !     Yes,  Cams,  I  have  an  eye,  and  if  it 
has  its  usual  trick,  its  tender  expression,  (you  under- 
stand what  I  would  say)  I  may,  perhaps,  be  happy." 
Cams,  for  a  time,  gave  indulgence  to  the  effusions  of 
his  vanity,  but  would  not  suffer  him  to  make  himself 
completely  ridiculous.     Love  was  very  speedily  for- 
gotten ;   and  a  kind  invitation  to  feel  himself  at  home, 
in   the   most  hospitable  mansion  in  the  State,   made 
Skinner  the  proudest  and  happiest  of  men. 

Falstaff  maintained,  that  it  was  proper  for  every 
man  "  to  labour  in  his  vocation."  Skinner  asserted, 
"  that  every  man  had  his  sphere  of  action,  beyond  the 
limits  of  which  he  ought  never  to  emerge."     *'  Mine," 


SKINNER.  139 

said  he,  "  amidst  the  tumults  of  war,  the  conflicts  of 
battle,  is  in  the  rear.— There,  I  am  always  to  be 
found.  I  am  firm  at  my  post.  What  did  Matthew 
Irvine  get  by  quitting  his  ?* — a  wound — a  villainous 
wound  !  Shall  1  follow  his  example,  step  out  of  my 
sphere,   and  set  myself  up  as  a  mark  to  be  shot  at  ? 

0  no  !  I  am  a  stickler  for  the  strict  performance  of 
duty,  but  feel  no  ambition  to  shine  beyond  it. 

Being  asked,  which  of  the  Ladies  of  South  Caro- 
lina possessed,  in  his  estimation,  the  greatest  attrac- 
tions ?  he  very  readily  replied,  "  The  widow  Izard 
beyond  all  comparison.  I  never  pass  her  magnificent 
sideboard,  but  the  plate  seems  ready  to  tumble  into  my 
pocket." 

Arriving  near  the  bank  of  the  river,  on  the  night  of 
the  contemplated  attack  u|)on  John's  Island,  he  whs 
asked,  whether  he  intended  to  pass  the  ford  ?  "  By 
no  means,"  replied  Skinner.  "  I  am  not  fond  of  ro- 
mantic enterprise,  and  will  not  seek  for  the  perilous 
achievements  where  the  elements,  more  than  the 
enemy,  are  to  be  dreaded.  The  river  too  is  deep,  and 
my  spirits  are  not  buoyant ;  I  should  sink  to  a  certainty 
and  meet  a  watery  grave.     Death  by  water  drinking  ! 

1  shudder  at  the  thought  of  it !  I  will  remain  and 
take  care  of  the  baggage ;  and  as  many  of  you  as  can 
boast  a  change,  may  be  sure  to  meet,  at  your  return, 
the  comforts  of  clean  linen,  and  the  most  cordial  wel- 
come that  I  can  give  you." 

*  After  the  gallant  charge  made  by  Captain  Armstrong  at  Quinby  Bridge, 
both  himself  and  his  Lieutenant  George  Cakrinc.ton,  having  passed  the  gsip 
made  in  it  by  the  enemy,  Dr.  Matthew  Irvine  put  himself  at  the  head  of  the 
dragoons  who  had  failed  in  the  attempt  to  cross,  and  made  an  entire  company 
of  the  19lh  Regiment  prisoners,  but  in  the  conflict  was  wounded. 


•149  MANNING. 


LIEUTENANT  MANNING, 

AND  OCCURRENCES  LEADING  TO  THE  DEFEAT  OF 
COLONEL  FYLE. 

That  important  consequfnces  have  resulted  from 
accidental  occurrences,  and  that  achievements  have 
been  attributed  to  foresight  and  judgment,  which 
originated  in  some  fortuitous  incident,  cannot  be 
doubted.  Tlie  following  Anecdote  may  possibly  be  dis- 
believed by  some,  yet  I  must  record  it  as  doing  honour 
to  a  fellow-soldier,  to  whom  I  was  bound  by  the  strict- 
est ties  of  friendship.  No  man  who  knew  Manning 
would  question  his  veracity,  and  from  his  lips  I  re- 
ceived it.  Nor  is  it  credible,  that  he  would  wander 
into  the  regions  of  romance  to  exalt  his  reputation, 
when  by  the  uniformity  of  his  conduct,  he  was  daily 
adding  to  tlie  laurels  universally  acknowledged  to  be 
his  due.  I  have  besides,  in  my  possession,  a  letter  from 
my  highly  valued  friend.  Judge  Johnson  of  Abingdon, 
Virginia,  at  the  period  of  its  occurrence,  an  Officer  in 
the  Legion,  corroborating  the  principal  fact,  though 
slightly  differing  in  the  detail.  Witli  regard  to  the 
worth  and  abilities  of  Manning,  his  coolness  and  in- 
trej/idity,  our  sentiments  are  tlie  same.  His  delineation 
of  his  talents  and  character  I  regard  as  perfect.  "  I 
never,"  says  the  Judge,  "  knew  any  man  who  was 
more  remarkable  for  that  quality,  which  is  called  pre- 
sence of  mind.  The  more  sudden  the  emergency,  the 
greater  the  danger  in  which  he  was  unexpectedly 
placed,  the  more  perfect  was  his  self-possession,  as 
related  to  the  faculties  both  of  body  and  mind.  In 
corporal  vigour  and  activity,  he  was  exceeded  by  {e,w  ;  , 
and  there  was  an  ardour  about  him,  which  charac- 
terised every  thing  that  he  said  or  did.  If  he  had  enjoyed 
the  advantages  of  literary  culture,  he  would  have  been 


MANNING.  141 

as  mucli  the  object  of  our  admiration  every  where 
else,  as  he  was  in  scenes  of  danger  and  military  ad- 
venture." 

Most  of  the  settlers  in  North  Carolina,  in  the  neigh- 
bourhood   of   Cross   Creek,   now    Fayetteville,   were 
emigrants  from  Scotland,  who  had  brought  with  them 
strong  prejudices  in  favour  of  monarchy.    Few  among 
ihem  had  imbibed  the  spirit  of  Liberty,  fostered  with 
with  enthusiasm   by  almost   the  entire   population  in 
their  adopted   country  ;  but,   to   the   credit  of  such  as 
professed   attachment,  it   must  be  remembered,    that 
having  once  declared  in  favour  of  the  cause  of  Ame- 
rica, none  more  courageously,  zealously,  and  faithfully 
supported   it.     To  Scotland,   we  owe  many  a  gallant 
Soldier.     No  other  foreign  nation  contributed  so  many 
distinguished   Officers  in  the   line    of  our   armies    as 
Scotland.     The   intrepid   Mercer  sealed  his  devotion 
to  our  cause  with  his  blood,  and  died  in  battle.     Lord 
Slerlin^,    Generals   W Dougald,    Sinclair,    Stephens, 
MUntosh,  and    Davie,  were   among  the   most  gallant 
and  strenuous  champions  of  Independence.     Knowing 
these  facts,  it  cannot  be  imagined,  that   I  could  ever 
cherish  or  utter  a  sentiment  injurious  to  a  country  to 
which  I  feel  the  strongest  attachment,  and  from  which 
I  ain  proud  to  have  derived  my  origin.     A    country, 
whose  sons  are  brave,  and  daughters  virtuous ;  where 
beauty  is  adorned  with  its  most  fascinating  perfections, 
and  manhood  exhibits  a  vigour  and  activity  that  can- 
not be  surpassed  ;   where  industry  has  produced  an 
almost  irtcredible  influx  of  wealth,  and  the  energies  of 
mind  an  increase  of  literary  acquirement,  that  places 
human  knowledge  on  an  eminence  that  it  had  never 
before  attained  ; — a  country  where,  as  a  student  in  a 
Colh^ge  of  celebrity,  I,  for  four  successive  years,  lis- 
tened with  delight  to  the  eloquence  of  the  amiable  and 
enlightened  Miller,  teaching,  how  far  more  congenial 
to  the  best   feelings   of  the  heart,  and    productive  of 


142  MANNING. 

happiness  to  man,  is  the  purity  of  genuine  Republi- 
canism, than  any  system  of  government  that  the  world 
has  ever  known.  Where  I  studied  the  theory  of 
morals,  and  witnessed  the  perfection  of  their  practice, 
under  the  immediate  protection  and  tuition  of  the 
first  of  Philosophers,  and  most  virtuous  of  men,  the 
immortal  Dr.  Thomas  Reid.  Where  Jardine,  the 
teacher  of  Eloquence,  honoured  me  with  his  friend- 
ship ;  and  the  liberal  kindness  of  other  Professors,  of 
the  inhabitants  of  the  city,  generally,  gave  birth  to 
sentiments  of  gratitude  and  affection,  that  can  never 
be  effaced.  Truly,  then,  I  can  assert,  that  prejudices 
are  unknown  in  the  following  narrative  : 

The  intrigues  and  efforts  of  Lord  Cornwallis,  to 
excite  insurrection,  backed  by  a  very  formidable  force, 
had  produced  among  the  Highland  emigrants  a  spirit 
of  revolt,  whicii  it  required  all  the  energies  of  General 
Greene  to  counteract,  before  it  could  be  matured. — 
The  zeal  and  activity  of  Lieutenant  Colonel  Lee, 
whose  usefulness  exceeded  calculation,  united  to  his 
acutcness  and  happy  talent  of  obtaining  intelligence  of 
every  movement,  and  of  the  most  secret  intentions  of 
the  enemy,  pointed  him  out  as  the  fittest  man  for  this 
important  service.  He  was  accordingly  selected,  with 
orders  to  impede  the  intercourse  of  Lord  Cornwallis 
with  the  disaffected ;  to  repress  every  symptom  of  revolt, 
and  promptly  to  cut  off  every  party  that  should  take  up 
arms  for  Britain.  Constantly  on  the  alert,  and  equally 
solicitous  to  give  security  to  his  own  command,  while 
he  harassed  the  enemy.  A  secure  position 'was,  on 
one  occasion,  taken  near  a  forked  road,  one  division 
of  which  led  directly  to  Lord  Cornwallis'  camp,  about 
six  miles  distant.  The  ground  was  chosen  in  the  dusk 
of  evening  ;  and  to  prevent  surprise,  patrols  of  cavalry 
were  kept  out  on  each  fork  during  the  night.  An 
order  for  a  movement  before  day  had  been  communi- 
cated to  every  individual,  and  was  executed  with  so 


MANNING.  143 

iittle  noise  and  confusion,  that  Lieutenant  Manning, 
waking  at  early  dawn,  found  himself,  excepting  one 
Soldier,  left  alone.  Stephen  Green,  the  attendant  of 
Captain  Cams,  lay  near  him,  resting  on  the  portman- 
teau of  his  superior,  and  buried  in  profound  sleep. 
Being  awakened,  he  was  ordered  to  mount  and  follow, 
while  Manning,  hastening  towards  the  fork,  hoped  to 
fall  upon  the  track,  and  speedily  rejoin  his  regiment. 
Much  rain  had  fallen  during  the  night,  so  that,  finding 
both  roads  equally  cut  up.  Manning  chose  at  hazard, 
and  took  the  wrong  one.  He  had  not  proceeded  far, 
before  he  saw  at  the  door  of  a  log-house,  a  rifleman 
leaning  on  his  gun,  and  apparently  placed  as  a  centinel. 
Gallopping  up  to  him,  he  inquired  if  a  regiment  of 
liorse  and  body  of  infantry  had  passed  that  way  ? 
"  Oh,  ho,"  cried  the  man,  (whistling  loudly,  which 
brought  out  a  dozen  others  completely  armed,  and 
carrying  each  a  red  rag  in  his  hat,)  "  you,  I  suppose, 
are  one  of  Greene's  men."  The  badge  which  they 
bore,  marked  their  principles.  Without  the  slightest 
indication  of  alarm,  or  even  hesitation,  Manning 
pointed  to  the  portmanteau  carried  by  Green,  and 
exclaimed — "  Hush,  my  good  fellow — no  clamour  for 
God's  sake — I  have  there  what  will  ruin  Greene — point 
out  the  ro^d  to  Lord  Cornwallis'  army,  for  all  depends 
up(m  early  intelligence  of  its  contents."  "  You  are 
an  honest  fellow,  (was  the  general  cry)  and  have  left 
the  rebels  just  in  time,  for  the  whole  settlement  are 
in  arms  to  join  Colonel  Pyle  to-morrow,  (naming  the 
place  of  rendezvous)  where  Colonel  Tarleton  will 
meet  and  conduct  us  to  camp."  "  Come,"  said  the  man, 
to  whom  he  had  first  spoken,  "  take  a  drink — Here's 
confusion  to  Greene,  and  success  to  the  King  and  his 
friends.  This  is  the  right  road,  and  you  will  soon 
reach  the  army  ;  or  rather  let  me  conduct  you  to  it 
myself.''  "  Not  for  ihe  world,  my  dear  fellow,"  re- 
plied Manning ;  "  your  direction  is  plain  and   I  can 


]44  MANNING. 

follow  it.  I  will  never  consent,  that  a  faithful  sub- 
ject of  his  Majesty  should  be  subjected  to  the  dangers 
of  captivity  or  death  on  my  account.  If  we  should  fall 
in  with  a  party  of  rebels,  and  we  cannnot  say  that  they 
are  not  in  the  neighbourhood  now,  we  should  both 
lose  our  lives.  I  should  be  hanged  for  desertion,  and 
you  for  aiding  me  to  reach  the  British  army."  This 
speech  produced  the  effect  he  desired.  The  libation 
concluded,  Manning  rode  off  amid  the  cheers  of  the 
company,  and  when  out  of  sight,  crossed  to  the  other 
road,  and  urging  his  horse  to  full  speed,  in  a  short  time 
overtook  and  communicated  the  interesting  intelli- 
gence to  his  commander.  Lee  was  then  meditating  an 
attack  upon  Tarleton,  who  had  crossed  the  Haw  River 
to  support  the  Insurgents;  but,  perceiving  the  vast  im- 
portance of  crushing  the  revolt  in  the  bud,  he  informed 
General  Greene  of  his  plan  by  a  confidential  messen- 
ger, and  hastened  to  the  point  of  rendezvous,  where 
Pyle,  with  upwards  of  four  hundred  men,  had  already 
arrived.  It  is  unnecessary  to  detail  the  sanguinary  scene 
which  followed.  Pyle,  completely  deceived,  and  to  the 
last  believing  the  Legionary  Dragoons  the  soldiers  of 
Tarleton,  was  overpowered,  and,  with  a  considerable 
portion  of  his  force,  became  victims  of  credulity. 

It  has  been  remarked,  that  "  severity  at  first  is  often 
humanity  in  the  end."  Its  policy,  on  this  occasion, 
Vi/\\\  scarcely  be  denied.  As  Lee  permitted  no  pursuit, 
many  escaped,  and  speading  universal  alarm,  so  com- 
pletely crushed  the  spirit  of  revolt,  that  opposition  to 
government  was  put  at  once  and  effectually  to  rest. 
But  had  the  Insurgents  been  cut  off  to  a  man,  would 
not  the  act  have  been  justified  on  the  score  of  retalia- 
tion ?  The  provocation  would  have  sanctioned  it.  To 
Colonel  Buford,  but  a  little  before,  Tarleton  had 
refused  capitulation.  Deaf  to  the  voice  of  clemency, 
and  intent  on  slaughter,  a  charge  was  made  on  an  un- 
prepared and  unresisting  foe.     His  heart  was  steeled 


MANNING.  145 

against  the  claims  of  mercy,  and,  as  Lee  has  forcibly 
said,  "  it  needed  but  the  Indian  war-dance,  and  roast- 
ing fire,  to  have  placed  the  tragedy  which  followed, 
first  in  the  records  of  torture  and  death." 

Many  other  proofs  could  be  adduced  of  Manning's 
presence  of  mind,  and  cool  intrepidity  in  action.  It  is 
grateful  to  me  to  mention  one  of  these.  At  the  battle 
of  Eutaw,  after  the  British  line  had  been  broken,  and 
the  Old  Buffs,  a  regiment  that  had  boasted  of  the 
extraordinary  feats  that  they  were  to  perform,  were 
running  from  the  field,  Manning,  in  the  enthusiasm  of 
that  valour  for  which  he  was  so  eminently  distin- 
guished, sprang  forward  in  pursuit,  directing  the  pla- 
toon which  he  commanded  to  follow  him.  He  did 
not  cast  an  eye  behind  him  until  he  found  himself  near 
a  large  brick  house,  into  which  the  York  Volunteers, 
commanded  by  Cruger,  were  retiring.  The  British 
were  on  all  sides  of  him,  and  not  an  American  Soldier 
nearer  than  one  hundred  and  fifty  or  two  hundred 
yards.  He  did  not  hesitate  a  moment,  but  springing 
at  an  Officer  who  was  near  him,  seized  him  by  the 
collar,  and  exclaiming  in  a  harsh  tone  of  voice — 
"  Damn  you,  sir,  you  are  my  prisoner,"  wrested  his 
sword  from  his  grasp,  dragged  him  by  force  from  the 
house,  and  keeping  his  body  as  a  shield  of  defence 
from  the  heavy  fire  sustained  from  the  windows,  car- 
ried him  off  without  receiving  any  injury.  Manning 
has  often  related,  that  at  the  moment  when  he  ex- 
pected that  his  prisoner  would  have  made  an  effort  for 
liberty,  he,  with  great  solemnity,  commenced  an  enu- 
meration of  his  titles — "  I  am  Sir,  Henry  Barry, 
Deputy  Adjutant  General  of  the  British  Army, 
Captain  in  the  52d  Regiment,  Secretary  to  the  Com- 
mandant of  Charleston."  "  Enough,  enough,  sir," 
said  the  victor,  "  you  are  just  the  man  I  was  looking 
for  ;  fear  nothing  for  your  life,  you  shall  screen  me 
from  danger,  and  I  will   take  special   care  of  j/ow." 

19 


146  MANNING. 

He  had  retired  in  tliis  manner  some  distance  from  the 
brick  house,  when  he  saw  Captain  Robert  Joiett  of 
the  Virginia  line,  engaged  in  single  combat  with  a 
British  Officer.  They  had  selected  each  other  for 
battle  a  little  before,  the  American  armed  with  a  broad 
sword,  the  Briton  with  a  musket  and  bayonet.  As 
they  came  together,  a  thrust  was  made  at  Joiett,  which 
he  happily  parried,  and  both  dropping  their  artificial 
weapons,  being  too  much  in  contact  to  use  them  with 
effect,  resorted  to  those  with  which  they  had  been 
furnished  by  nature.  They  were  both  men  of  great 
bulk  and  vigour,  and  while  struggling,  each  anxious 
to  bring  his  adversary  to  the  ground,  a  grenadier  who 
saw  the  contest,  ran  to  the  assistsnce  of  his  Officer, 
made  a  longe  with  his  bayonet,  missed  Joiett's  body, 
but  drove  it  beyond  the  curve  into  his  coat.  In 
attempting  to  withdraw  the  entangled  weapon,  he 
threw  both  the  combatants  to  the  ground  ;  when  get- 
ting it  free,  he  raised  it  deliberately,  determined  not  to 
fail  again  in  his  purpose,  but  to  transfix  Joiett.  It 
was  at  this  crisis  that  Manning  approached — not  near 
enough,  however,  to  reach  the  grenadier  with  his  arm. 
In  order  to  gain  time,  and  to  arrest  the  stroke,  he  ex- 
claimed in  an  angry  and  authoritative  tone — "  You 
damn'd  brute,  will  you  murder  the  gentleman  ?"  The 
Soldier,  supposing  himself  addressed  by  one  of  his 
own  Officers,  suspended  the  contemplated  blow,  and 
looked  around  to  see  the  i>erson  who  had  thus  spoken 
to  him.  Before  he  could  recover  from  the  surprise 
with  which  he  had  been  thrown,  Manning,  now  suffi- 
ciently near,  smote  him  with  his  sword  across  tiie 
eyes,  and  felled  him  to  the  ground  ;  while  Joiett  dis- 
engaged himself  from  his  opponent,  and  snatching  up 
the  musket,  as  he  attempted  to  rise,  laid  him  dead  by 
a  blow  from  the  butt  end  of  it.  Manning  was  of 
inferior  size,  but  strong  and  remarkably  well  formed. 
Joiett,   literally   speaking,  a  giant.      This,  probably, 


MANNING.  147 

led  Barry,  who  could  not  have  wished  the  particulars 
of  his  capture  to  be  commented  on,  to  reply,  when 
asked  by  his  brother  Officers,  how  he  came  to  be 
taken,  "  I  was  overpowered  by  a  huge  Virginian."* 

The  reputation  of  a  Soldier,  so  highly  distinguished 
both  for  valour  and  discernment,  whose  firmness 
enabled  him,  in  all  emergencies,  to  maintain  a  com- 
posure that  neither  difficulty  nor  danger  could  disturb, 
has  caused  the  honour  of  giving  birth  to  Manning  to 
be  claimed  both  by  Ireland  and  America.  If  my  re- 
collection is  accurate,  he  certainly  declared  himself  a 
native  of  Carlisle  in  Pennsylvania.  Yet,  when  I 
remember  the  general  tenor  of  his  conversation — "  the 
facility  he  possessed  of  involving  in  obscurity,  the 
subject  he  meant  to  elucidate" — the  accent  on  his 
tongue — the  peculiar  turn  of  his  expression — his  call- 
ing for  example  to  his  servant,  walking  with  naked 
feet  over  ground  covered  by  a  heavy  frost — "  Shall  I 
never  teach  you  discretion.  Drone ! — If  you  will  go 
barefoot,  why  the  Devil  don't  you  put  on  your  blue 
stockings."  And  on  another  occasion,  returning  to 
camp,  and  looking  at  a  bottle  of  spirits,  half  emptied, 
which  he  had  left  full — "  Speak  quickly,  Drone,  you 
big  thief,  and  tell  me  what  you  have  done  with  the 
remainder  of  my  liquor  ?"  My  opinion  is  staggered, 
and  I  am  inclined  to  acknowledge  the  superior  claims 
of  Ireland. 

*  Henry  Barry  was  an  eccentric  character.  He  aimed  at  singularity  in 
words  as  well  as  actions.  He  would  send  "  his  beitermost  kind  of  compliments" 
to  a  lady ;  and,  in  a  simple  flower,  present  "  the  sweetest  of  all  possible  flowers." 
But  in  nothing  was  his  conduct  regarded  as  so  farcical,  as  in  his  claim  to  deli- 
cate and  liberal  feelings.  On  one  occasion,  it  has  been  stated,  that  reading  a 
Poem,  of  his  own  composition,  on  the  blessings  of  Liberty,  a  gentleman  present 
asked  him  frankly,  "  How  his  actions  could  be  so  much  at  variance  with  the 
principles  he  professed  ?"  "  Because,  Sir,"  he  unblushingly  replied,  "  I  am  a 
Soldier  of  Fortune,  seeking  a  snug  and  comfortable  establisiuneut.  My  feelings 
are  as  delicate  as  yours,  or  any  other  man's  ;  but  1  never  suffer  myself  to  be 
humbugged  by  them."  The  day  at  Eutaw  was  certainly  not  his  fighting  day ; 
but  he  is  said  to  have  distinguished  himself  in  India. 


148  MANNING. 

Manning,  at  the  conclusion  of  the  war,  married  into 
a  highly  respectable  family,  and  settled  in  South  Caro- 
lina. His  attachment  to  a  military  life  continuing 
unabated,  he  became  a  candidate  for  the  appointment 
of  Adjutant  General  of  the  Militia  of  the  State,  ob- 
tained it,  and  performed  the  important  duties  attached 
to  it,  with  the  applause  of  the  public,  till  his  death. 


SOLDIERS  OF  THE  LEGION. 


Having  briefly  sketched  the  characters,  and  detailed  the  services  df 
several  of  the  Officers  of  the  Legion,  I  am  confident  that  I  shall 
gratify  my  readers,  by  recording  a  few  interesting  Anecdotes  re- 
lating to  the  Soldiers  of  that  corps.  In  proportion  as  they  were 
removed  from  that  rank  in  society,  in  which  an  enlargement  of 
ideas,  and  expansion  of  mind  was  to  be  looked  for,  must  be  their 
merit,  who,  under  the  exalted  influences  of  military  and  patriotic 
enthusiasm,  evinced  a  nobleness  of  soul,  and  chivalric  intrepidity, 
increasing  their  own  fame,  and  giving  a  higher  stamp  of  celebrity 
to  the  American  character.  I  fondly  hope,  that  they  will  be  re- 
ceived with  cordiality  by  every  patriotic  bosom. 

SERGEANT  WHALING. 

When  the  importance  of  wresting  the  possession  of 
the  Stockade  Fort  at  Ninety-Six  from  the  enemy,  was 
clearly  ascertained,  Lieutenant  Colonel*Lee,  to  whom 
the  charge  of  directing  all  operations  against  it,  was 
intrusted  by  General  Greene,  adopted  (it  must  be 
acknowledged  too  hastily)  the  opinion,  that  it  might 
be  effected  by  fire.  Accordingly,  Sergeant  Whaling, 
a  gallant  non-commissioned  Officer,  who  had  served 
with  zeal  and  fidelity  from  the  commencement  of  the 
war,  and  whose  period  of  enlistment  would  have  ex- 
pired in  a  few  days,  with  twelve  privates,  were  seat 
forward  in  open  day,  and  over  level  ground  that 
afforded  no  cover  to  facilitate  their  approaches,  to 
accomplish  this  hazardous  enterprise.     Whaling  saw 


150  WHALING. 

with  certainty,  tlic  death  on  which  he  was  about  to 
rush,  but  by  the  prospect  of  which  he  was  unappallied. 
He  dressed  himself  neatly — took  an  affectionate  but 
cheerful  leave  of  his  friends,  and  with  his  musket 
swung  over  his  shoulder,  and  a  bundle  of  blazing  pine 
torches  in  his  hand,  sprung  forward  for  the  object  of 
his  attack.  His  alacrity  inspired  the  little  band  with 
courage.  They  followed  him  closely  up  to  the  build- 
ing around  which  the  Stockade  was  erected,  before 
the  troops  within  fired  a  shot.  Their  aim  was  deli- 
berate and  deadly.  But  one  individual  escaped  with 
life.  Whaling  fell  deeply  lamented  by  every  Officer 
and  Soldier  of  the  Legion.  Instead  of  the  rash  and 
unavailing  exposure  to  which  he  was  subjected,  all 
admitted  his  just  claim  to  promotion — grieved  that  his 
valuable  life  was  not  preserved  for  those  services  he 
had  so  often  shown  himself  so  capable  of  rendering. 
Poor  Whaling  ! — the  Soldier's  cherished  hope  was 
denied  him, 

"  When  all  his  toils  were  past, 

"  Still  to  return,  and  die  at  home  at  last." 


SEHGEANT  MITCHELL. 

It  was  at  Ninety-Six  also,  that  another  Soldier  of 
distinguished  merit  lost  his  life,  and  unhappily  under 
circumstances  peculiarly  distressing.  Captain  Michael 
Rudolph  commanded  the  detachment  of  the  infantry  on 
diity  on  the  night  after  the  arrival  of  tiie  Legion  from 
Augusta,  where  the  corps  had  been  employed,  during 
the  early  part  of  the  siege  of  the  post  now  threatened,  in 
bringing  Colonel  Browne,  and  his  command,  to  terms 
of  submission.  Sergeant  Mitchell  went  the  rounds 
with  Rudolph,  after  having  two  hours  before  planted 


MITCHELL.  151 

the  centinels  at  their  posts.  Unhappily,  among  them 
were  several  militiamen,  who  had  never  before  seen 
service.  One  of  these,  without  challenging,  tired  at  the 
relief  with  which  Rudolph  and  Mitchell  were  approach- 
ing his  position,  and  shot  Mitchell  through  the  body. 
He  fell  to  the  ground— told  his  Cajitain  that  he  was 
mortally  wounded — warmly  pressed  his  hand — asked  if 
he  had  ever  neglected  or  omitted  any  of  the  duties  of 
a  faithful  Soldier  and  true  Patriot— regretted  that  he 
had  not  closed  his  life  on  the  field  of  battle,  and  con- 
juring him  to  bear  evidence,  that  he  died  without  fear, 
and  without  a  groan,  expired  !  He  was  a  Virginian 
from  the  County  of  Augusta.  I  fondly  hope  that  this 
tribute  to  his  memory,  may  reach  his  friends.  Wha- 
ling was  a  Pennsylvanian. 


BULKLEY  AND  NEWMAN. 

Among  the  incidents  in  the  Southern  Army,  that 
excited  the  highest  interest,  was  the  singular  and 
romantic  friendship  which  united  two  of  the  most  dis- 
tinguished Soldiers  of  the  Legionary  Cavalry.  Bulkley 
and  Newman  were  natives  of  Virginia,  born  in  the  same 
neighbourhood,  and  from  early  infancy  united  by  such 
a  congeniality  of  sentiment,  that  it  almost  appeared  as 
if  one  soul  gave  animation  to  both.  Their  attachment 
increased  with  their  years^t  strengthened  with  their 
strength.  As  school-fellows  they  were  inseparable  ; 
their  task  was  the  same,  and  he  who  was  first  perfect 
in  a-jquiring  it,  was  unhappy  till  he  had  impressed  it, 
with  equal  force,  on  the  mind  of  his  friend.  When  an 
appeal  to  arms,  at  the  dawn  of  our  Revolution,  had 
called  forth  the  youthful  heroes  of  America  to  tight 
the  battles  of  their  country,  and  defend  her  violated 


152  BULKLEY  AND  NEWMAN. 

rights,  both,  on  the  same  clay,  and  animated  with  the 
same  enthusiastic  devotion  to  her  cause,  were  enrolled 
in  the  ranks  of  her  armies.  The  officers  of  the  Legion, 
who  yet  survive,  can  testify,  that  through  all  the  perils 
and  difficulties  of  the  Southern  War,  each  seemed  more 
anxioiis  for  the  safety  and  alleviation  of  the  sufferings 
of  his  friend,  than  of  his  own.  In  action  they  invaria- 
bly fought  side  by  side ;  in  the  more  tranquil  scenes  of 
encampment,  they  were  constantly  engaged  in  the  same 
pursuits;  their  toils  and  their  pleasures  were  the  same. 
When  at  Quinby,  the  memorable  charge  was  made  on 
the  19th  British  Regiment,  by  the  intrepid  Armstrong, 
Bulkley  and  Newman  were  among  the  few  Dragoons, 
who,  having  leapt  the  gap  in  the  bridge,  which  the 
enemy  were  industriously  attempting  to  widen,  were 
able  to  support  their  commander.  The  display  of  gal- 
lantry exhibited  could  not  have  been  surpassed.  Arm- 
strong, seconded  by  George  Carrington,  his  Lieuten- 
ant, his  gallant  Sergeant  Power,  the  brave  Captain 
M'Cauly,  of  the  militia,  and  less  than  a  dozen  of  his 
own  troopers,  actually  cut  his  way  through  the  entire 
regiment,  when  a  heavy  and  fatally  directed  fire  pro- 
duced a  most  direful  catastro|)he.  Power  fell  despe- 
rately wounded  ;  and  the  youthful  friends,  Bulkley  and 
Newman,  closed  their  brilliant  career  in  the  path  of 
glory  for  ever.  Mortally  wounded  at  the  same  instant, 
they  fell  on  the  same  spot,  and,  with  united  hands, 
reciprocating  kindness  to  the  last,  expired. 


CORPORAL  COOPER. 

Making  a  tour  to  the  North,  in  the  year  1817,  I 
was  invited  to  visit  the  Franklin,  then  lying  at  Chester, 
in  company  with  the  Commodores  Murray  and  Dale, 


COOPER.  153 

and  several  other  officers  of  distinction.     On  our  pas- 
sage to  the  ship,  some  mention  being  made  of  Carolina, 
a  naval  officer  present,  said,  "  I  do  not  believe  there 
exists  at  this  day,  an  individual  who  has  a  more  perfect 
knowledge  of  the  Southern  War  of  the  Revolution  than 
myself,  particularly,  all  that  relates  to  the  battles  fought 
in  the  Carolinas.     I  entered  those  States  with  the  Le- 
gion commanded  by  Harry  Lee,  and  witnessed  the 
conclusion  of  our  toils  at  the  evacuation  of  Charles- 
ton." "  Under  such  circumstances.  Sir,"  I  immediately 
replied,  "  it  must  be  my  good  fortune  to  be  in  company 
with  an  old  companion,  for  I  had  the  honour  of  hold- 
ing a  commission  in  the  infantry  of  that  regiment,  and 
was,  like  yourself,  attached  to  the  command  which 
took  possession  of  Charleston,  when  given  up  by  the 
British."     "  I  am,   Sir,"  rejoined  the  officer,  "  alto- 
gether at  a  loss,  even  to  guess  at  your  name;  nor  do  I 
recollect  ever  to  have  seen  you  before.     Attached  to 
the  Legion,  you  must  have  known  Armstrong,  who 
commanded   the   Sorrel   Troop,   and    have    probably 
heard  of  Corporal  Cooper,  who  belonged  to  it."  "  Good 
heavens.   Cooper,"    I  exclaimed,  with  delight,   "  is  it 
you  ?  I  now  am  astonished  at  my  own  forgetfulness, 
for  I  as  thoroughly  recognise  you  as  if  we  had  parted 
but  yesterday !"     I  mentioned  my  name  in  turn,  and 
was  happy  to  find  that  I  was  not  forgotten  by  him.     I 
am  confident  that,  on   this  occasion,  the  sensation  of 
delight  and  good  feeling  to  men  who  had  served  and 
suffered  together,  was  strongly  experienced  by  both. 
The  surprise  and  satisfaction  of  the  moment  being  at 
an  end,  Cooper,  with  a  significant  smile,  said,  "  By  the 
by,   I  believe  you  were  one  of  the  officers  who  sat  on 
the  court-martial  when  I  was  in  jeopardy,  and  brought 
to  trial  at  our  encampment,  near  the  Ashley  River." 
"  No,   Cooper,"    I   replied,   "  I   was   not ;    though   I 
well  remember,  on  another  occasion,  when   we  lay 

at  M'Pherson's,  that,  in  consequence  of  your " 

20 


154  COOPER. 

"  Hush,  hush,  my  dear  Sir,"  he  exclaimed,  "  I  find 
that  you  have  an  excellent  and  accurate  memory,  the 
less  we  say  on  that  subject  the  better."  I  had  known 
Cooper  well ;  and  it  is  no  exaggeration  to  assert,  that 
a  more  gallant  Soldier  never  wielded  a  sabre.  The 
character,  indeed,  of  consummate  intrepidity,  distin- 
guished every  individual  of  Armstrong's  troop.  Dis- 
ciplined by  him,  and  animated  by  his  example,  they 
were  invincible.  But  there  were  particular  traits  that 
characterized  Cooper,  that  entitled  him  to  still  higher 
commendation.  If  activity  and  intelligence  were  re- 
quisite to  obtain  information — if  gallantry  to  strike  a 
Partisan  blow,  Cooper  was  always  uppermost  in  the 
thoughts  of  Lee.  He  had  a  soul  for  enterprise,  and  by 
prompt  discernment,  and  a  happy  facility  of  calculating 
from  appearances  of  events  to  happen,  of  incalculable 
utility  to  the  service.  When  Armstrong,  by  the  falling 
of  his  horse,  was  made  a  prisoner,  and  a  flag  sent  out 
from  the  British  Commander  to  say,  that  his  servant 
and  baggage  would  be  expected,  as  he  wished  to  shou^ 
every  civility  to  an  enemy,  whose  bravery  could  only 
be  exceeded  by  his  generosity  to  all  who  fjell  into  his 
power,  Cooper  was  immediately  directed  by  Lee,  to 
act  the  part  of  a  domestic,  and  sent  forward  for  the 
purpose.  I  mentioned  my  recollection  of  the  circum- 
stance to  Cooper,  who  rei)Iied,  "  and  well  I  knew  my 
Colonel's  motives ;"  and  so  perfectly  was  I  disposed 
to  second  his  views,  that  while  taking  the  refreshment 
which  was  ordered  for  me  by  General  Leslie,  in  the 
front  of  his  quarters  near  the  British  lines,  1  was 
closely  examining  the  course  of  a  creek  in  his  rear, 
by  which  I  flattered  myself,  I  should  very  speedily  be 
able  to  conduct  and  introduce  him  at  the  Head-Quar- 
ters of  our  own  army."  He  then  went  on  to  say — "  The 
arts  used  by  a  Captain  Campbell,  who  tried  every 
manner  of  cajoling,  to  pick  out  of  my  conversation 
intelligence   of   our   force   and  position,  very  highly 


COOPER.  155 

amused  me.  I  acted  the  simpleton's  part  so  naturally, 
that  I  could  clearly  perceive,  that  he  believed  me  com- 
pletely entangled  in  his  toils.  When  suddenly  chang- 
ing my  manner,  I  gave  him  such  a  burlesque  and 
exaggerated  an  account  of  troops  of  dragoons  and 
regiments  of  infantry,  that  had  no  existence  but  in  my 
own  imagination,  that  perceiving  my  drift,  he  angrily 
exclaimed,  "  Damn  you,  you  rascal,  you  are  too  cun- 
ning for  me.  Here,  take  a  drink  of  grog  and  depart." 
I  cannot  conjecture  why  it  was  done  ;  but  finding  that 
I  was  not  to  be  deceived,  I  think  that  they  might  have 
done  me  the  credit  to  suppose,  that  I  was  not  to  be 
intimidated  ;  but,  instead  of  conducting  me  to  my 
Captain,  I  was  led  to,  and  shut  up  in  the  Provost, 
when  looking  through  the  bars,  I  perceived  Armstrong 
passing  merrily  along  with  several  Naval  Officers,  who 
seemed  to  vie  with  each  other  in  civility  to  him.  My 
situation  forbid  ceremony,  so  I  called  out  lustily — 
"  Hollo,  Captain  Armstrong  !  pray  have  the  goodness 
to  tell  me,  is  it  you  or  /  that  am  a  prisoner  ?"  My 
speech  produced  an  explanation.  I  was  immediately 
released  ;  and  profitting  by  every  occasion  to  store  my 
mind  with  useful  intelligence,  in  a  few  days  left  the 
Garrison,  a  partial  exchange  having  freed  my  Captain 
from  captivity.  My  fortunes  have  since  varied  very 
much.  I  have  gained  nautical  information — have 
commanded  a  ship  of  my  own — have,  as  a  Naval 
Officer,  supported  the  flag  of  my  country — and  now 
the  war  being  over,  find  a  snug  birth  in  the  Navy  Yard. 
My  varied  life  would  greatly  amuse  could  1  detail 
it,  more  especially,  as  its  constant  bustle  but  ill 
accords  with  my  religious  principles ;  for,  though  you 
might  not  suspect  it,  whenever  my  thoughts  take  a 
serious  turn,  I  am  professedly  a  member  of  the  Society 
of  Friends,  a  genuine  homespun  Quaker." 


156  ORD. 


Although  the  expedition  against  Georgetown,  con- 
ducted by  General  Marion  and  Lieutenant  Colonel 
Lee,  was  not,  from  a  combination  of  adverse  circum- 
stances, crowned  with  success.  Although  the  flight  of 
a  guide,  who  had  engaged  to  conduct  Captain  Arm- 
strong and  the  dragoons  of  the  Legion  to  a  point, 
which  would  have  effectually  prevented  the  British 
Soldiers,  who  had  escaped  the  Legionary  Infantry, 
from  reaching  a  redoubt  that  afforded  perfect  security, 
had  given  ample  grounds  for  the  suspicion  of  treachery, 
and  disconcerted  the  plans  that  had  promised  the  most 
perfect  triumph  ;  yet,  advantages  arose  from  it  of  con- 
siderable consequence  to  the  American  cause.  Colo- 
nel Campbell,  the  Commandant,  was  taken,  and  about 
seventy  men  either  killed  or  made  prisoners.  It  con- 
vinced the  British,  that  however  great  the  distance  by 
which  they  were  removed  from  their  enemy,  (the  Con- 
tinental Army  being,  at  the  period  of  attack,  on  the 
borders  of  North  Carolina)  that  they  were  still  vul- 
nerable, and  at  every  moment  subject  to  attack.  It 
checked  their  marauding,  predatory  expeditions,  gave 
comparative  security  to  the  oppressed  inhabitants  in 
their  vicinity,  and  to  themselves,  full  assurance,  that 
to  be  safe,  they  must  continue  inactive,  and  remain 
within  the  limits  of  their  Garrison.  It  is  pleasing  to 
me,  to  record  the  singular  gallantry  of  a  most  meri- 
torious Soldier,  who,  on  this  occasion,  gained  high 
renown. 

SERGEANT  ORD. 

In  every  instance  where  this  heroic  Soldier  was 
engaged  in  action,  he  not  only  increased  his  own  repu- 
tation, but  animated  those  around  him  by  his  lively 
courage.     In  camp,  on  a  march,  and  in  every  situa- 


ORD.  I5il 

tion,  he  performed  all  his  duties  with  cheerfulness  and 
vivacity,  preserving  always  the  most  orderly  conduct, 
and  keej)ing  his  arms,  accoutrements,  and  clothing  in 
the  neatest  possible  condition.  He  might,  indeed,  be 
considered  a  perfect  Soldier. 

At  the  surprise  of  Georgetown,  being  with  a  small 
party  of  the  Legion  Infantry,  in  possession  of  an 
inclosure,  surrounding  a  house  from  which  they  had 
expelled  the  enemy,  the  recovery  of  the  position  was 
sought  by  a  British  force,  whose  leader,  approaching 
the  gate  of  entrance,  exclaiaied — "  Rush  on,  my  brave 
fellows,  they  are  only  worthless  militia,  and  have  no 
b;iyonets."  Ord  immediately  placed  himself  in  front 
of  the  gate,  and  as  they  attempted  to  enter,  laid  six 
of  his  enemies,  in  succession,  dead  at  his  feet,  crying 
out  at  every  thrust — "  No  bayonets  here — none  at  all 
to  be  sure!"  following  up  his  strokes  with  such  rapi- 
dity, that  the  British  party  could  make  no  impression, 
and  were  compelled  to  retire. 


PERRY  SCOTT. 

There  was  no  Soldier  in  the  Legion  Infantry,  who 
appeared  more  completely  to  have  gained  the  favour  of 
Lieutenant  Colonel  Lee,  than  Perry  Scott.  His 
chief  merit  consisted  in  his  consummate  intrepidity, 
and  readiness  to  engage  in  hardy  enterprise.  As  often 
as  a  Partisan  expedition  was  in  contemplation,  he  was 
invariably  selected  as  one  of  the  daring  spirits  to 
insure  success.  I  am  tempted  to  call  for  the  pity  of 
his  countrymen  for  his  untimely  end,  from  the  recol- 
lection, that  in  all  the  battles  of  the  South,  from  the 
junction  of  the  Legion  with  the  army  of  General 
Greene,  till  the   final  retreat  of  the  enemy,  he  was 


158  SCOTT. 

noticed  for  distinguished  valour  and  activit3\  He  was 
present  at  the  evacuation  of  Charleston,  and  shortly 
after  disbanded  ;  but,  devoted  to  a  military  life,  again 
enlisted  with  his  former  commander,  Michael  Ru- 
dolph, then  at  the  head  of  a  Legionary  Corps,  under 
the  orders  of  General  Harmar,  and  as  Sergeant  Major 
acquitted  himself  with  reputation. 

The  Indian  War  terminated,  Scott  knowing,  that 
many  of  the  Officers  of  the  Partisan  Legion  of  Lee, 
and  several  of  his  old  associates,  had  settled  in  Caro- 
lina and  Georgia,  resolved  to  visit  them,  and  actually 
reached  the  Cheraws  with  that  intention.  Here,  for 
the  sake  of  repose,  after  a  wearisome  journey,  he  took 
up  his  quarters  at  a  Public  House,  kept  by  an  old  Sol- 
dier, once  attached  to  the  volunteers  of  Ireland,  the 
corps  commanded  by  Lord  Rawdon.  An  amicable 
intercourse,  for  a  time,  increased  the  attachment  of 
these  veterans  to  each  other.  Scott  eulogized  the 
bravery  of  the  Irish,  and  his  companion  was  lavish  in 
his  commendation  of  the  Soldiers  of  the  Legion,  when 
unluckily  drawing  comparisons  relative  to  the  merits 
of  their  respective  corps,  a  serious  quarrel  ensued, 
which  they  immediately  determined  to  settle  by  the 
sword.  The  conflict  was  maintained  with  spirit  and 
obstinacy,  audits  result  long  doubtful,  but  Scott  gain- 
ing a  superiority  and  actively  maintaining  it,  was 
about  to  triumph,  when  the  wife  of  his  adversary  in- 
terfering, and  putting  a  loaded  pistol  into  her  husband's 
hand,  he  discharged  it  at  poor  Scott,  who  fell  dead  at 
his  feet.  Tiiis  conflict  being  considered  as  the  settle- 
ment of  a  point  of  honour,  no  effort  had  been  made 
to  prevent  it,  but  the  survivor  was  now  arrested,  and 
being  shortly  after  tried  for  murder,  was  condemned 
and  executed. 


PATRIOTS  IN  THE  CIVIL  LINE, 


AND 


PRISONERS  CONFINED  AS  SUBJECTS    FOR  RETALIATION. 


While  such  applause  is  bestowed  on  Revolutionary 
characters,  distinguished  in  the  field  of  glory,  I  con- 
sider it  equally  a  duty,  and  it  is  altogether  congenial  to 
my  inclination,  to  express  my  high  admiration  of  the 
illustrious  patriots,  who,  in  defiance  of  the  varied 
species  of  oppression  by  which  they  were  incessantly 
goaded,  adhered,  with  unshaken  resolution,  to  the 
principles  they  had  pledged  themselves  to  support. 
History  affords  no  example  of  magnanimity,  that  can 
surpass  the  firmness  and  patient  suffering  of  the  in- 
trepid associates,  who,  selected  as  objects  of  peculiar 
severity,  and  more  refined  persecution,  were  accused 
of  imaginary  crimes,  and,  in  violation  of  the  capitula- 
tion of  Charleston,  and  every  principle  of  good  faith, 
torn  from  their  families,  and  exiled  to  St.  Augustine. 
It  has  been  said,  that  constancy  will  give  place  to 
despair,  when  suffering  appears  without  end.  To  find 
them,  therefore,  firm  in  duty,  and  meeting  their  fate 
with  that  intrepid  assurance  which  could  alone  result 
from  greatness  of  soul,  and  a  consciousness  of  correct 
and  irreproachable  conduct,  must,  as  long  as  mankind 
possess  sense  to  perceive,  and  virtue  to  approve,  the 
beauty  of  patriotic  worth  and  excellence,  secure  to 
them  the  gratitude  and  veneration  of  their  country. 
This  inhuman   and  unjustifiable  measure  is  said  to 


160  PATRIOTS  IN  THE  CIVIL  LINE. 

have  been  adopted  expressly  to  ascertain  the  firmness 
and  constancy  of  the  American  character.  What  was 
the  result?  Did  tyranny  produce  submission?  Did 
integrity  lose  its  dominion  in  the  patriotic  heart?  O, 
no!  The  reverses  of  fortune  afforded  a  more  ample 
field  for  the  display  of  their  exalted  magnanimity;  and 
they  never  appeared  less  apj)alled,  nor  inclined  to  bend 
with  submission  to  the  yoke,  than  at  the  period  when 
not  a  ray  gleamed  in  perspective,  to  cheer  them  through 
the  dark  terrors  of  the  storm.  Not  an  individual 
shrunk  from  his  duty. 

It  is  due  to  their  exemplary  firmness  to  be  a  little 
more  particular  relative  to  the  suffering  they  were  com- 
pelled to  endure. 

When  all  the  exiles  (with  the  exception  of  General 
Gadsden,  who  steadily  persisted  in  his  resolution  to 
enter  into  no  new  engagement  with  men  who  had  once 
deceived  him)  had  given  their  paroles  to  confine  them- 
selves within  certain  prescribed  limits,  and  to  with- 
hold, until  exchanged,  all  active  opposition  to  the 
British  authorities.  The  commanding  officer  of  the 
garrison,  as  if  distrustful  of  their  sincerity,  issued  an 
order,  that  they  should  attend,  at  roll-call,  thrice  every 
day,  in  these  insulting  words  : 

"  St.  Augustine,  September  l6th,  1780. 
GENERAL  ORDERS. 

*•'  The  Rebel  Prisoners  are  to  appear  at  gun-fire  in  the  evening, 
and  at  guard  mounting  in  the  morning,  at  the  Town  House,  where 
tlie  Commissary  will  attend,  and  call  the  roll  of  every  name,  and 
report  to  the  Captain  of  the  day  if  any  be  absent. 

"  They  are  to  put  some  badge  of  distinction  on  their  Negroes,  and 
other  domestics,  so  that  they  may  be  known. 

"  No  Rebel  uniform,  or  any  coats  in  imitation  of  British  or  French 
Regimentals,  to  be  worn  by  any  of  them. 


PATRIOTS  IN  THE  CIVIL  LINE.  161 

"  If  any  Soldier  is  seen  or  known  to  associate  with  any  of  the 
Rebels,  he  shall  be  brought  to  a  Court  Martial,  and  tried  for  a  dis- 
obedience of  orders. 

"  By  order  of  the  Commanding  Officer, 

"  WM.  FLOYER,  Lieutenant, 
"  Acting  Adjutant  in  the  60th  Regiment. 
*•  To  Wm.  Brown,  Esq. 

"  Commissary  of  Prisoners." 

Additional  severities  were  constantly  imposed ;  but 
none  that  so  highly  aggravated  misfortune,  as  an  order 
which  forbid  the  worship  of  the  Deity.  This  was  at 
first  communicated  by  a  verbal  message,  but  was 
speedily  followed  by  a  direct  order  to  Mr.  Brown,  the 
Commissary  of  Prisoners  to  this  effect. 

"  St.  Augustine,  November  18th,  1780. 
"  Sir, 

"  Having  been  informed  that  the  Rebel  Prisoners  have  very 
improperly  held  private  meetings  for  the  purpose  of  performing  Di- 
vine Service,  agreeably  to  their  rebellious  principles,  and  as  such 
proceedings  are  thought  highly  injurious  to  His  Majesty's  Govern- 
ment, and  of  seditious  tendency,  and  an  infringement  of  their  pledge 
of  honour  :  I  desire  you  will  acquaint  them,  that  such  meetings  will 
not  be  allowed,  and  that  seats  will  be  provided  for  their  reception  in 
the  Parish  Church,  where  it  is  expected  they  will  observe  the  utmost 
decency.  You  are  also  to  mention  to  these  gentlemen,  that  I  consider 
messages  delivered  by  you  of  sufficient  weight  and  authenticity,  and 
that  it  is  in  compliance  with  your  request,  that  I  descend  to  this  man- 
ner of  satisfaction,  which  Lieutenant  Colonel  Glazier  also  desires 
may  be  understood  to  be  expressive  of  his  sentiments. 

(Signed)  "PAT  TONYN. 

'•  To  Wm.  Brown,  Esq. 

"  Commissary  of  Prisoners  of  War." 

It  is  unnecessary  for  me  to  comment  on  this  out- 
rageous insult  both  to  God  and  man.  I  will  content 
myself  by  giving  an  extract  from  the  diary  of  the  vene- 

21 


162  PATRIOTS  IN  THE  CIVIL  LINE. 

rable  Mr.  Josiah  Smith,   which  plainly,   hut  forcibly, 
speaks  its  effect  upon  the  mind  of  a  pious  man. 

"  Behold  the  act  of  a  British   Governor ;   an  act 
neither  charitable  in  its  nature,  nor  pious  in  its  inten- 
tion.    Totally  unworthy   of  the  Christian  character, 
and  even  short  of  Heathen  tenderness  and  forbearance. 
For  we  read  in  Scripture,  Acts  chap,  xxviii.  ver.  30 
and  31,   'that  Paul,  then  a  prisoner  in  Rome,  dwelt 
for  two  whole  years  in  his  own  hired  house,  and  re- 
ceived all  that  came  unto  him,  preaching  the  kingdom 
of  God,  and  teaching  those  things  which  concerned  the 
Lord  Jesus  Christ,  with  all  confidence,  no  man  for- 
bidding him.^     This  only  was  our  desire — and  this  we 
think  was  our  duty;  to  spend  a  part  of  every  Sabbath 
in  holy  adoration  of  the  Divine  Being,  who  noc  only 
created,  but  daily  preserveth  us,  and  in  tender  mercy 
supplies  all  our  wants.     But  we  are  charged  with  pro- 
ceedings of  a  seditious  tendency,  and  violation  of  our 
paroles  and  pledge  of  honour.  This  we  absolutely  deny, 
having  carefully  avoided  to  require  any  thing  tending 
that  way  from  our  reader  and  preacher,  either  in  ser- 
mons or  prayers.-    Once,  indeed,  some  expressions  in 
the  latter  were  made  use  of  by  the  reader,  contrary  to 
the  expectations  of  the  company,  but  never  again  re- 
peated; nor  did  we  once  court  or  enjoy  the  presence 
of  any  inhabitant  in  our  Sabbath  assemblies.    But  that 
we  might  not  plead  the  entire  want  of  religious  wor- 
ship, we  are   '  invited  to  attend  the  Parish  Church, 
where  seats  will  be  provided  for  us,  and  where  it  was 
expected  that  we  should  observe  the  utmost  decency.' 
This  is,  indeed,  an  insult  upon  our  understandings;  for, 
can  it  be  expected,  that  we  could,  with  the  least  sin- 
cerity, join  in  prayer  for  the  daily  destruction  or  dis- 
appointed efforts  of  our  brethren  and  friends,  or  im- 
plore success  for  a  man  that  had  countenanced  every 
kind  of  oppression  and  cruelty  towards  our  friends  and 
connexions,  and  all  with  a  view  of  enslaving  us  and 


PATRIOTS  IN  THE  CIVIL  LINE.  163 

our  posterity,  and  to  whom  we  have  sworn,  that  we 
will  never  be  subject  while  we  can  have  the  power  of 
remaining  free  citizens  of  the  United  States  of  Ame- 
rica. Such  worship  would  indeed  be  no  better  than 
solemn  mockery ;  therefore,  rather  than  join  in  such 
hypocritical  petitions,  and  perhaps  be  insulted  with 
sermons  calculated  to  affront  us,  we  have  resolved  to 
refuse  our  attendance  on  Divine  worship,  at  the  Parish 
Church,  and  patiently  put  up  with  the  loss  of  paying 
our  devotions  publicly,  and  at  our  own  dwellings 
silently  to  spend  our  returning  Sabbaths,  in  the  best 
manner  we  can,  by  reading  and  meditation,  until  it 
shall  please  the  Almighty  disposer  of  all  events,  to 
restore  us  again  to  peace,  and  to  our  afflicted  families 
and  friends." 

But  how  shall  I  find  expression  to  do  justice  to  the 
heroes,  who,  arrested  as  objects  of  retaliation,  in  the 
event  of  General  Greene's  carrying  into  effect  his 
threat  relative  to  the  execution  of  Colonel  Hayne,  were 
shut  up  in  prison-ships,  and  kept  in  momentary  expec- 
tation of  death.  Allowed  to  forward  an  address  to 
the  American  General,  whose  highly  excited  resent- 
ments the  British  commanders  were  anxious  to  depre- 
cate. They  urge  not,  as  might  have  been  expected, 
the  adoption  of  measures  which  would  ensure  their 
safety,  but  raised  by  their  magnanimity  above  the  ter- 
rors of  an  infamous  and  public  execution,  alone  lament, 
"  that  if  it  be  the  lot  of  all  or  any  of  them  to  be  sacri- 
ficed, that  their  blood  cannot  be  disposed  of  more  to 
the  advancement  of  the  glorious  cause  to  which  they 
had  adhered."  Where,  in  the  annals  of  the  world, 
shall  we  find  an  instance  of  more  exalted  patriotism^ 
The  highly  eulogized  self-devotion  of  Regulus,  which 
immortalized  his  name,  and  added  lustre  to  the  reputa- 
tion of  his  country,  when  compared  with  such  a  dis- 
play of  magnanimity,  shrinks  into  insignificance.  The 
Roman  had  been  remarkable  for  the  severity  of  his 


164  PATRIOTS  IN  THE  CIVIL  LINE. 

manners,  and  would  have  been  the  last  to  excuse  the 
faihires  of  another;  he  therefore  preferred  a  death 
which  would  obliterate  from  the  minds  of  his  country- 
men the  recollections  of  his  misfortunes,  and  even 
exalt  him  in  their  opinion,  to  a  life  which  could  only 
subject  him  to  neglect,  and  the  severer  pangs  of  self- 
reproach.  But,  in  this  instance,  not  a  solitary  in- 
dividual, but  a  band  of  heroes,  regardless  of  their  own 
safety,  bid  defiance  to  the  malignity  of  their  persecu- 
tors, and  calmly  solicit,  that  no  consideration  of  their 
sufferings,  should  alter  the  resolutions  that  the  Ameri- 
can General  had  adopted  as  necessary  to  the  main- 
tenance of  the  honour  and  interests  of  his  country. 

It  must  be  acknowledged,  that  the  conduct  of 
the  officers  of  the  Continental  Line,  composing  the 
army  of  General  Greene,  gives  them  a  title  to 
distinguished  encomium.  Regardless  of  the  conse- 
quences to  which,  in  case  of  capture,  they  would  be 
exposetl,  they  come  forward  with  unanimity,  and  earn- 
estly solicit  that  prompt  retaliation  should  avenge  the 
murder  of  a  heroic  soldier,  and  for  ever  put  down  the 
wish  to  renew  such  sanguinary  proceedings.  "  We  are 
not,"  they  say,  "  unacquainted  that  such  a  measure 
will  involve  our  lives  in  additional  dangers,  but  we  had 
rather  forego  temporary  distinctions,  and  commit  our- 
selves to  the  most  desperate  situations,  than  prosecute 
this  just  and  necessary  war,  upon  terms  so  unequal  and 
dishonourable."  This  proceedure  was  highly  gratify- 
ing to  General  Greene,  but  scorning  to  increase  the 
miseries  of  the  deluded  loyalists  who  had  joined  the 
British  standard,  he  resolved  to  retaliate  on  the  Regu- 
lar Officers  alone.  Fortunately  for  those  who  had 
been  designated  as  the  proper  objects  of  resentment, 
no  one  of  equal  rank  with  Colonel  Hayne  was  ever 
after  made  a  prisoner.  I  well  remember  when  Major 
Skelly,  of  the  71st  regiment,  was  taken,  report  had 
given  him  higher  rank — he  was  called  Colonel  Skelly. 


PATRIOTS  IN  THE  CIVIlL  LINE.  165 

When  ascertained  that  he  was  really  a  Major,  General 
Greene,  whose  mind  was  evidently  extremely  agitated, 
said,  "  I  rejoice  at  the  circumstance,  as  he  has  the 
reputation  of  having  always  conducted  himself  with 
humanity,  and  like  a  gentleman.  Had  he  been  a  Co- 
lonel, he  must  have  suffered." 

My  admiration  of  patriotism  is  such,  that  I  make  no 
excuse  for  giving  the  names  of  the  persons,  who,  by 
their  virtuous  example,  may  teach  the  rising  genera- 
tion how  to  act  and  how  to  suffer  for  the  honour  and 
prosperity  of  our  Republic. 


EXILES  TO  ST.  AUGUSTINE. 

Edward  Blake,  John  Budd,  Joseph  Bee,  Richard 
Beresford,  John  Berwick,  Robert  Cochran,  Benjamin 
Cudworth,  Henry  Crouch,  John  Splatt  Cripps,  Ed- 
ward Barrel,  Daniel  De  Saussure,  John  Edwards, 
Thomas  Ferguson,  George  Flagg,  Christopher  Gads- 
den, Lieutenant  Governor ;  William  H.  Gibbes,  Tho- 
mas Grimball,  G.  A.  Hall,  William  Hall,  Thomas 
Hall,  Thomas  Hey  ward,  jun.  Isaac  Holmes,  Richard 
Hutson,  William  Johnson,  Noble  Wimberly  Jones, 
William  Lee,  Rev.  John  Lewis,  William  Logan,  Wil- 
liam Livingston,  John  Loveday,  Richard  Lushington, 
Arthur  Middleton,  William  Massey,  Edward  M'Crea- 
dy,  Alexander  Moultrie,  John  Morrall,  John  Neufville, 
Edward  North,  Joseph  Parker,  John  Ernest  Poyas, 
Samuel  Prioleau,  Jacob  Read,  Hugh  Rutledge,  Ed- 
ward Rutledge,  Benjamin  Postell,  John  Sausum, 
Thomas  Savage,  Thomas  Singleton,  Josiah  Smith, 
Philip  Smith,  James  Hamden  Thomson,  Peter  Timo- 
thy, John  Todd,  Anthony  Toomer,  Benjamin  Waller, 
James  Wakefield,  Edward  Weyman,  Morton  Wilkinson. 

Of  these  distinguished  citizens,  hve  only  survive, 
viz:  Josiah  Smith,  Robert  Cochran.  George  Flagg, 
W.  H.  Gibbes,  and  John  Todd; 


166  PATRIOTS  IN  THE  CIVIL  LINE. 


PRISONERS  ON  BOARD  THE  PRISON-SHIP  TORBAYo 

William  Axson,  Samuel  Ash,  George  Arthur,  John 
Anthony,  Ralph  Atmore,  John  Baddeley,  Peter  Boun- 
netheau,  Henry  Benbridge,  Joseph  Ball,  Nathaniel 
Blundell,  James  Bricken,  Francis  Bayle,  William  Bas- 
quin,  John  Clarke,  jun.  Thomas  Cooke,  Norwood 
Conyers,  James  Cox,  John  Dorsuis,  Joseph  Dunlap, 
Rev.  James  Edmonds,  Thomas  Elliott,  Joseph  Elliott, 
John  Evans,  John  Eberley,  Joseph  Glover,  Francis 
Grott,  Mitchell  Gargil,  William  Graves,  Peter  Gue- 
rard,  Jacob  Henry,  David  Hamilton,  Thomas  Harris, 
William  Hornby,  Daniel  Jacoby,  Charles  Kent,  Sam- 
uel Lockhart,  Nathaniel  Lebby,  Thomas  Listor,  Tho- 
mas Legale,  John  Lesesne,  Henry  Lybert,  John  Mi- 
chael, John  Minott,  sen.  Samuel  Miller,  Stephen 
Moore,  George  Mouck,  Jonathan  Morgan,  Abraham 
Mariett,  Solomon  Milner,  John  Neufville,  jun.  Philip 
Prioleau,  James  Poyas,  Job  Palmer,  Joseph  Robinson, 
Daniel  Rhody,  Joseph  Righton,  William  Sneiling, 
John  Stephenson,  jun.  Paul  Snyder,  Abraham  Seavers, 
Ripley  Singleton,  Samuel  Scottowe,  Stephen  Shrews- 
bury, John  Saunders,  James  Tousseger,  Paul  Taylor, 
Sims  White,  James  Wilkins,  Isaac  White,  George 
Welch,  Benjamin  Wheeler,  William  Wilkie,  John 
Welch,  Thomas  You. 


PRISONERS    ON    BOARD    THE    SCHR.    PACK-HORSE, 

John  Barnwell,  Edward  Barnwell,  Robert  Barn- 
well, William  Brandford,  John  Blake,  Thomas  Coch- 
ran, Joseph  Gray,  Robert  Dewar,  William  De  Saus- 
sure,  Thomas  Evelcigli,  John  Edwards,  jun.  John  W. 
Edwards,  William  Elliott,  Benjamin  Guerard,  Tho- 
mas Grayson,  Thomas  Gibbons,  Phili|)  Gadsden,  John 
Greaves,  William  H.  H^ry,  John  B.  Holmes,  William 


PATRIOTS  IN  THE  CIVIL  LINE.  167 

Holmes,  Thomas  Hughes,  James  Heyward,  George 
Jones,  Henry  Kennon,  John  Kean,  Stephen  Lee, 
Philip  Meyer,  George  Mosse,  William  Neufville,  John 
Owen,  Charles  Pinckney,  jun.  Samuel  Smith,  William 
H.  Wigg,  Charles  Warham,  Thomas  Waring,  jun. 
Richard  Waring,  John  Waters,  David  Warham,  Rich- 
ard Yeadon. 


There  are  still  other  Patriots  to  be  added  to  the  list 
of  persons  subjected  to  peculiar  persecution.  The 
dreary  vaults  of  the  Provost  were  assigned  to  them  as 
a  residence,  and  in  some  cases,  with  the  additional 
incumbrance  of  heavy  irons.  The  Colonels  Stark 
and  Beard,  Captain  Moore,  Mr.  Pritchard,  Messrs. 
Peter  Boquet,  Samuel  Legare,  Jonathan  Sarazin, 
Henry  Peronneau,  Daniel  Stevens,  and  others,  who, 
incapable  of  deserting  the  cause  of  their  country,  had 
shown  no  disposition  to  submission,  were  regarded  as 
the  proper  objects  on  whom  it  was  expedient  to  try 
the  effect  of  coercion.  They  underwent  the  trial,  the 
ordeal  of  persecution,  without  the  slightest  dereliction 
of  i)rinciple,  their  patriotic  virtue  retained  its  purity  to 
the  last. 


THE  ANCIENT  BATTALION  OF 
ARTILLERY. 

Wheresoever  a  display  of  patriotic  devotion  to 
the  service  of  their  country,  has  distinguished  any 
association  of  Citizens,  it  has  been  peculiariy  grateful 
to  me  to  record  it.  I  consider  it  a  tribute  justly  due  to 
the  Charleston  Ancient  Battalion  of  Artillery, 
to  state,  that  their  patient  endurance  of  difficulties, 
their  active  exertions  in  the  field,  gained  them,  through- 


168  PATRIOTS  IN  THE  CIVIL  LINE. 

out  the  war,  a  continued  increase  of  reputation. — 
Their  exemplary  gallantry  in  the  action  near  Beaufort, 
where  a  considerable  British  force  under  Gairdner, 
was  defeated  by  General  Moultrie,  and  steady  conduct 
on  the  Lines  during  the  siege  of  Charleston,  when  the 
defence  of  the  Horn- Work  was  particularly  intrusted 
to  them,  must,  for  ever,  redound  to  their  credit.  Nor 
is  it  less  honourable  to  them  to  find,  in  the  list  of 
Exiles  banished  to  St.  Augustine,  and  persons  selected 
for  peculiar  persecution,  and  sentenced  to  close  con- 
finement ill  the  Provost  and  Prison-Ships,  the  names 
of  all  their  Officers  without  an  exception,  and  very 
many  of  the  Non-Commissioned  Officers  and  Privates 
of  the  Battalion.  They  were  the  only  volunteer 
corps  of  the  Militia  that  remained,  at  the  conclusion 
of  the  war,  unbroken ;  and  after  the  evacuation  of 
Charleston  by  the  enemy,  being  speedily  reorganized 
and  recruited,  have  continued  to  preserve  their  high 
and  merited  reputation.  It  is  a  pleasure  to  me  to  give 
the  names  of  the  Officers  in  command  at  the  resto- 
ration of  peace. 

Thomas  Grimball,  Major. 
Thomas  Heyward,   Captain. 
Edward  Rutledge,         do. 
Anthony  Toomer,  do. 

William  H.  Gibbes,  Captain  hieutenan!. 
Sims  White,  Lieutenant. 
Edward  Neupville,  do. 
Peter  Bounetheau,  do. 
William  Morgan,  do. 
John  D.  Miller,  do. 
Edward  Weyman,  dv. 
*  Daniel  Stevens,  flo. 
Charles  Warham,    do. 


GADSDEN.  169 


GENERAL  GADSDEN. 

The  conduct  of  the  British  commanders  towards 
this  venerable  patriot,  in  the  strongest  manner  evinced 
their  determination  rather  to  crush  the  spirit  of  oppo- 
sition, than  by  conciliation  to  subdue  it.  The  man  did 
not  exist  to  whose  delicate  sense  of  honour,  even  a 
shadow  of  duplicity  would  have  appeared  more  abhor- 
rent than  General  Gadsden.  Transported  by  an  arbi- 
trary decree,  with  many  of  the  most  resolute  and 
influential  citizens  of  the  Republic,  to  St.  Augustine, 
attendance  on  parade  was  peremptorily  demanded ; 
when  a  British  officer  stepping  forward,  said,  "  Ex- 
pediency, and  a  series  of  political  occurrences,  have 
rendered  it  necessary  to  remove  you  from  Charleston 
to  this  place ;  but,  gentlemen,  we  have  no  wish  to 
increase  your  sufferings;  to  all,  therefore,  who  are 
willing  to  give  their  paroles,  not  to  go  beyond  the 
limits  prescribed  to  them,  the  liberty  of  the  town  will 
be  allowed  ;  a  dungeon  will  be  the  destiny  of  such  as 
refuse  to  accept  the  indulgence."  The  proposition 
was  generally  acceeded  to.  But  when  General  Gads- 
den was  called  to  give  this  new  pledge  of  faith,  he  in- 
dignantly exclaimed,  "  With  men  who  have  once  de- 
ceived me,  I  can  enter  into  no  new  contract.  Had  the 
British  commanders  regarded  the  terms  of  the  capitula- 
tion of  Charleston,  I  might  now,  although  a  prisoner, 
under  my  own  roof,  have  enjoyed  the  smiles  and  con- 
solations of  my  surrounding  family;  but  even  without 
a  shadow  of  accusation  proffered  against  me,  for  any 
act  inconsistent  with  my  plighted  faith,  I  am  torn  from 
them,  and  here,  in  a  distant  land,  invited  to  enter  into 
new  engagements.  1  will  give  no  parole."  "  Think 
better  of  it,  Sir,"  said  the  officer,  "  a  second  refusal 
of  it  will  fix  your  destiny — a  dungeon  will  be  your 


170  GADSDEN. 

future  habitation."  "  Prepare  it,  then,"  said  the  in- 
flexible patriot,  "  I  will  give  no  parole,  so  help  me 
Godr 

An  opposition  to  the  arbitrary  mandate  of  the  pre- 
vailing authorities,  was  estimated  as  a  crime  too 
flagrant  to  pass  unpunished.  The  rectitude  of  his 
character,  the  respectability  of  his  age,  afforded  no 
plea  in  his  favour ;  he  was  immediately  separated  from 
his  companions  in  misfortune,  and  for  the  remaining 
period  of  his  captivity,  condemned  to  pass  his  days  in 
solitary  confinement.  It  was  not,  however,  for  perse- 
cution to  daunt  and  overcome  a  mind  as  firm  in 
patriotic  virtue  as  his.  Patient  under  every  insult,  he 
felt  the  pressure  of  tyranny,  but  bent  not  beneath  its 
weight.  He  uttered  no  sigh,  he  made  no  remonstrance, 
nor  deigned  to  solicit  a  mitigation  of  the  severities 
inflicted  upon  him  ;  and  for  ever  to  his  honour  must  it 
be  remembered,  that,  superior  to  the  dictates  of  resent- 
ment, however  highly  excited,  at  the  memorable  session 
of  the  Legislature  at  Jacksonborough,  no  individual 
advocated  with  greater  ardour  and  humanity  the  cause 
the  unfortunates,  who  had  incurred  the  public  dis- 
pleasure, nor  more  strenuously  endeavoured  to  mollify 
the  punishments  denounced  against  them. 

"  Les  malheureux,  que  out  de  Vespritf  trouvent  des 
resources  en  eux  memes.^'^  Sensible  that  activity  of  mind 
would  increase  its  energies,  and  better  enable  him  to 
support  oppression,  he  diligently  engaged  in  the  study 
of  the  Hebrew  language,  and  wa's  hourly  increasing 
his  reputation  as  a  scholar,  while  his  enemies  vainly 
hoped  that  he  was  writhing  under  the  penalties  of  his 
political  offences. 

The  character  of  a  disinterested  Patriot,  pure  in  prin- 
ciple, and  guided  by  the  most  honourable  intentions, 
was  allowed  to  him  even  by  the  most  determined  of 
his  political  opponents.  The  late  Governor  Boone, 
decidedly  the  man  of  the  best  information  and  correct 


GADSDEN.  171 

judgment  ever  sent  from  Britain  to  preside  over  the 
province  of  South  Carolina,  was  heard  at  the  com- 
liiencement  of  the  Revohitionary  War,  to  say — "  God 
knows  how  this  unhappy  contest  will  end,  or  what  the 
popular  leaders  in  South  Carolina  can  be  aiming  it — 
but  Gadsden  I  know  to  be  an  honest  man — he  means 
well." 

A  writer  of  intelligence,  immediately  subsequent  to 
his  death,  doing  homage  to  his  virtues,  recommends, 
and  in  my  opinion  with  singular  propriety,  a  sentence 
from  Cicero,  as  an  appropriate  Epitaph : 

"    IN     DIFFICILLIMIS      REIPUBLICiE     TEMPORIBUS     URBEM      NUNQUAM 

DESERUI IN  PROSPERIS  NIHIL  1)E  PUBLICO  DELIBAVI, 

IN  DESPERATIS  NIHIL    TIMUI." 
» 

And  to  the  still  higher  increase  of  his  reputation,  adds 
— "  7  he  first  to  raise  the  standard  of  opposition 
against  the  parent  government,  he  was 'the  first  to  re- 
commend oblivion  in  favour  of  those  who  differed  in 
opinion,  and  who  were  condemned  to  pay  the  penalty 
of  their  political  offences,  by  the  forfeiture  of  their 
estates." 

An  instance  of  his  firm  and  decided  character,  which 
occurred  in  the  year  1777,  is  highly  worthy  to  be 
recorded.  The  Congress  of  the  United  States,  not 
long  after  the  declaration  of  Independence,  having 
recommended  to  the  States,  that  such  of  the  dis- 
affected as  were  willing  to  take  the  oath  of  allegiance, 
should  be  permitted  to  do  so  ;  Mr.  Lowndes,  then  Pre- 
sident of  the  State,  issued  his  Proclamation,  extend- 
ing the  time  for  taking  the  oath  allowed  by  the  act  of 
the  State  Legislature.  This  measure  being  reprobated 
by  some  of  the  Whigs,  a  number  of  persons  assembled, 
who,  after  tearing  the  Proclamation  from  the  hands  of 
the  Marshal,  proceeded  with  noise  and  tumult  to  the 
State  House,  where  the  President  and  Council  were 


172  GADSDEN. 

then  in  session.  General  Gadsden,  who  was  one  of 
the  Council,  came  out  to  the  people,  and  finding  their 
resentments  directed  towards  the  President,  told  them 
that  he,  himself,  was  the  man  whom  they  should  assail 
— that  he  had  advised  the  Proclamation — that  the  pub- 
lic interest  required  that  the  country  should  be  united — 
and  that  all  who  were  willing  to  embark  in  the  com- 
mon cause,  sliould  be  received,  though  they  came  in 
at  the  last  hour — that  the  recommendations  of  Con- 
gress, at  such  a  crisis,  should  be  received  as  law — that 
tiiose  wlio  resisted  them  were  little  better  than  the 
enemies  of  the  country — that  for  himself,  whatever 
might  be  said,  or  done,  he,  as  a  Magistrate,  would 
administer  the  oaths  to  any  person,  to  the  last  moment 
of  the  time  permitted  by  the  Proclamation.  In  pur- 
suance of  this  declaration,  he  sat  up  till  twelve  o'clock 
of  the  night  of  the  last  day  appointed  for  the  purpose 
of  receiving  the  oaths,  and  did,  actually,  at  a  late 
hour,  issue  certificates  to  some  who  took  the  oaths 
before  him. 

When  first  shut  up  in  the  Castle  at  St.  Augustine, 
the  comfort  of  a  light  was  denied  him  by  the  Com- 
mandant of  the  Fortress.  A  generous  subaltern  offered 
to  supply  him  with  a  candle,  but  he  declined  it,  least 
the  Officer  should  expose  himself  to  the  censure  of  his 
superior. 

After  Andre's  arrest,  Colonel  Glazier,  the  Governor 
of  the  Castle,  sent  to  advise  General  Gadsden  to  pre- 
pare himself  for  the  worst — intimating,  that  as  Gen- 
eral Washington  had  been  assured  of  retaliation,  if 
Andre  was  executed,  it  was  not  unlikely  that  General 
Gadsden  would  be  the  person  selected.  To  this  mes- 
sage he  replied — "  That  he  was  always  prepared  to 
die  for  his  country;  and  though  he  knew  it  was  im- 
possible for  Washington  to  yield  the  right  of  an  Inde- 
pendent State  by  the  Law  of  War,  to  fear  or  affection, 
yet  he  would  not  shrink  from  the  sacrifice,  and  would 


GADSDEN.  173 

rather  ascend  the  scaffold  than  purchase  with  his  life 
the  dishonour  of  his  country. 

An  election  of  a  Governor  of  the  State  occurring 
shortly  after  his  exchange,  the  suffrages  of  the  majority 
of  the  Legislature  were  in  his  favour,  but  he  declined 
the  ofTfice,  and  in  terms  so  highly  honourable  to  him, 
that  I  fear  not  to  offend  by  recording  their  purport. 

"Mr.  Speaker,  and  Gentlemen, 

"  I  have  served  my  country  in  a  variety  of  sta- 
tions for  thirty  years,  and  would  now  cheerfully  make 
one  of  a  forlorn  hope  in  an  assault  on  the  lines  of 
Charleston,  if  it  was  probable,  that  with  a  certain  loss 
of  life,  you,  my  friends,  would  be  reinstated  in  the  pos- 
session of  your  capital.  What  I  can  do  for  my  country, 
I  am  willing  to  do.  My  sentiments  in  favour  of  the 
American  cause  have  never  changed.  I  consider  it  as 
the  cause  of  liberty  and  human  nature.  The  present 
times  require  the  vigour  and  activity  of  the  prime  of 
life ;  the  increasing  infirmities  of  old  age  would  prevent 
me  from  serving  you  to  your  advantage.  For  your 
sakes,  and  the  sake  of  the  public,  I  must  beg  your  in- 
dulgence for  declining  so  arduous  a  trust." 


JOHN  RUTLEDGE. 

The  extraordinary  powers  of  John  Rutledge,  his 
extensive  knowledge,  and  irresistible  eloquence,  can 
best  be  estimated  by  the  high  encomium  bestowed  on 
him  by  the  celebrated  Patrick  Henry,  of  Virginia,  who 
declared,  that  in  the  first  Congress,  where  there  was 
as  brilliant  a  display  of  talent  as  was  ever  exhibited  in 
a  collected  body  of  legislators,  "  that  he  shone  with 
superior   lustre."     Being  asked   on  his  return  to  his 


174^  RUTLEDGE. 

native  State,  "  what  had  been  done  by  the  representa- 
tives of  the  nation — what  kind  of  men  composed  that 
illustrious  body,  and  particularly  whom  he  thought  the 
greatest  man,"  he  replied,  "  If  you  speak  of  eloquence, 
John  Rutledge,  of  South- Carolina,  is  the  greatest 
orator ;  but,  if  you  speak  of  information  and  sound 
judgment,  Colonel  Washington  is  unquestionably  the 
greatest  man  on  the  floor."  Of  his  decision  of  character 
there  can  exist  no  doubt.  It  was  strongly  exemplified 
at  the  very  commencement  of  the  Revolutionary  con- 
test. When  the  vote  to  appoint  deputies  to  a  Continen- 
tal Congress  was  carried  in  the  Assembly  of  South- 
Carolina,  propositions  were  immediately  introduced, 
for  instructing  the  Delegates  to  what  point  it  was  ad- 
missible for  them  to  pledge  the  concurrence  of  the 
Province  to  such  measures  as  might  be  proposed  for. 
general  adoption.  John  Rutledge,  with  great  ability, 
contended,  that  unless  unshackled  by  restraint,  and 
allowed  to  act  at  discretion,  that  their  power  to  do 
good  would  be  inadequate  to  the  energies  which  the 
crisis  demanded ;  and  being  asked,  "  what  ought  we  to 
do  then,  with  these  men  should  they  make  a  bad  Use  of 
the  power  delegated  to  them,  he  replied,  "  hang  them.'''' 
But  to  his  guidance  of  the  helm  of  government, 
during  the  most  calamitous  scenes  of  the  war  within 
the  State,  is  in  a  great  degree  to  be  attributed  the  suc- 
cesses ultimately  obtained  over  a  powerful  and  tri- 
umphant enemy.  He,  at  a  very  early  period,  perceiv- 
ed the  superior  ability  of  General  Greene  to  direct 
every  military  operation,  and  with,  indefatigable  in- 
dustry, seconded  his  views  with  all  the  influences  of 
the  civil  authority.  His  judicious  promotion  of  the 
Generals  Sumter,  Marion,  and  Pickens,  did  credit  to 
his  discernment,  and  proved  of  the  highest  utility  to 
his  country,  while  the  well  timed  proclamations,  pro- 
mising pardon  and  protection  to  all  who  had  in  evil 
hour  been  tempted  to  make  submission,  awakened  as 


RUTLEDGE.  175 

by  a  charm  the  slumbering  energies  of  patriotism,  and 
roused  the  entire  population  of  Carolina,  as  one  man, 
to  seek  for  conquest,  or  encounter  death.  In  his  speech, 
when  advanced  to  the  Presidential  chair  of  the  State, 
on  the  first  formation  of  the  Constitution,  he  declared, 
"  I  have  always  thought  every  man's  best  services  due 
to  his  country ;"  and  to  the  last  hour  of  the  vi^ar,  his 
entire  conduct  gave  testimony  of  his  sincerity.  His 
zeal  and  activity  never  knew  abatement.  His  decision 
in  refusing  to  sanction  the  abandonment  of  the  Fort 
on  Sullivan's  Island,  on  the  approach  of  the  fleet  of 
Sir  Peter  Parker,  must,  for  ever,  redound  to  his 
honour,  since  it  not  only  gave  to  General  Moultrie, 
and  his  intrepid  Garrison,  the  opportunity  to  show 
how  firm  the  resistance  of  men  determined  to  be  free  ; 
but  so  completely  changed  the  sentiments  of  the  enemy 
with  regard  to  the  opposition  which  they  were  to 
encounter,  when  engaged  with  Carolinians,  that, 
though  still  formidable  in  force,  and  capable  of  doing 
much  mischief,  they  at  once  relinquished  the  idea  of 
further  hostility,  and  precipitately  withdrew  to  New 
York. 

His  exertions  in  collecting  the  militia  of  the  interior 
country  at  Orangeburgh,  on  the  invasion  of  Provost, 
and  expeditious  movement  to  frustrate  the  attack  on 
Charleston,  by  its  happy  results,  increase  his  claim  to 
applause.  Above  every  other  trait  of  character,  (when 
I  consider  the  propensity  of  man  to  indulge  with  wan- 
tonness in  the  exercise  of  delegated  authority)  it  must 
redound  to  the  honour  of  John  Rutledge,  possessing 
dictatorial  powers,  that  the  justice  and  equitable  cur- 
rent of  his  administration,  never  engendered  the  slight- 
est murmur,  nor  gave  birth  to  a  single  complaint. 
So  mild,  indeed,  and  conciliating  were  all  his  actions, 
that  obedience  went  hand  in  hand  with  command  ;  and 
the  ardour  of  zeal  seemed  rather  to  solicit  service^ 
than  seek  the  means  of  avoiding  it. 


176  RUTLEDGE 

Though  taxed  by  Cassiiis,  a  political  writer  of  the 
day,  as  being  the  framer  and  advocate  of  the  Confis- 
cation Law,  (now  generally  reprobated)  it  would  be 
the  height  of  injustice  exclusively  to  censure  him^ 
when  at  the  moment  of  its  passing,  there  were  not 
more  than  a  dozen  Members  of  the  Legislature,  who 
declared  their  sentiments,  or  gave  their  votes  in  oppo- 
sition to  it.  The  fact  is,  that  the  provocation  to 
severity  had  been  considered  as  excessive,  and  the 
irritation  of  the  public  mind  excited  beyond  control. 
I  was  on  the  spot  at  the  moment  that  the  bill  passed, 
and  had  strong  reason  to  believe,  that  though  certainly 
approved,  it  did  not  ordinate  with  him. 


EDWARD  RUTLEDGE. 

As  firmly  attached  as  his  brother,  to  every  feeling 
and  sentiment  of  patriotism,  Mr.  Edward  Rutledge, 
with  equal  assiduity,  devoted  his  time  and  his  talents 
to  the  public  service.  If  the  Demosthenian  eloquence 
of  John  Rutledge  was  more  impetuous  and  command- 
ing, the  Ciceronian  style  of  Edward  was  more  per- 
suasive. There  was  a  suavity  in  his  manner,  and 
conciliating  attraction  in  his  arguments,  that  had 
frequently  the  effect  of  subduing  the  prejudices  of  the 
unfriendly,  and  which  never  failed  to  increase  the 
ardour  and  inflexibility  of  steady  friends.  The  elo- 
quence of  John  Rutledge  was  as  a  rapid  torrent  ;  that 
of  Edward  as  a  gentle  and  smoothly  gliding  stream — 
the  first  hurried  you  forward  to  the  point  it  aimed  at, 
with  i)owerful  impetuosity — the  last  conducted  to  it, 
with  fascinations  that  made  every  progressive  step 
appear  enchanting.  Civil  occupations  engaged  the 
attention  of  the  elder  brother.     The  younger  in  the 


RUTLEDGE.  177 

field,  as  well  as  in  the  cabinet,  obtained  celebrity. 
In  the  well-contested  action  on  Port  Royal  Island,  he 
had  the  command  of  one  of  the  field-pieces  which 
essentially  contributed  to  the  victory,  and  justly  re- 
ceived the  thanks  of  the  General  who  commanded. 
After  the  capture  of  Charleston,  the  influence  both  of 
his  talents  and  example,  did  not  escape  the  penetration 
of  the  British  Commanders.  They  plainly  saw,  how 
much  a  man  of  such  superior  ability,  would  be  looked 
up  to  by  the  suffering  multitude;  and  to  destroy  the 
effect,  by  an  act  of  as  great  tyranny  as  ever  was  exer- 
cised, removed  him  to  St.  Augustine.  The  cheerful- 
ness of  his  natural  disposition,  his  conciliating  atten- 
tion to  his  companions  in  this  situation  of  unmerited 
persecution,  contributed,  in  no  trifling  degree,  to 
cherish  hope,  and  oppose  intrepid  resistance  to  every 
encroachment  of  despondency.  After  his  exchange 
and  freedom  from  captivity,  he  was  elected  a  Member 
of  the  Legislature  of  the  State  ;  and  at  the  conclusion 
of  the  war,  served  in  the  Council  aiding  the  adminis- 
tration of  Governor  Matthews.  The  act  of  his  life 
that  exalts  him  to  the  highest  honour,  is  still  to  be 
mentioned.  He  was  one  of  the  signers  of  the  Decla- 
ration of  Independence,  on  the  4th  of  July,  1776. 
This  is  a  sublime  test  of  patriotism,  that  can  never  be 
disputed  ;  and  which,  as  long  as  the  liberties  of  Ame- 
rica shall  endure,  will  secure  to  him  the  admiration 
and  blessings  of  his  country. 


HUGH  RUTLEDGE. 

The  talents  of  Mr.  Hugh  Rutledge  were  not,  per- 
haps, equally  brilliant,  nor  of  so  distinguished  a  cast  as 
those  of  his  brothers ;  but,  for  solidity  of  judgment, 

23 


178  RUTLEDGE. 

and  strong  manly  sense,  he  was  not  inferior  to  either 
of  them  ;  and  as  a  firm  and  intrepid  Patriot,  was  pre- 
eminently distinguished  by  the  cheerful  performance  of 
every  duty  to  his  country.  He  too,  like  his  brother 
Edward,  was  deemed  of  sufficient  consequence,  to  be 
made  an  object  of  peculiar  persecution  ;  and  being 
sent  into  exile,  supported  all  the  trials  of  long  confine- 
ment, and  irritating  restrictions,  with  unshaken  con- 
stancy. After  his  exchange,  he  filled  the  Speaker's 
Chair  in  the  Legislature  greatly  to  the  satisfaction  of 
its  Members,  and  finally  advanced  to  the  Chancery 
Bench,  closed  a  life  of  usefulness  with  the  applause 
and  sincere  regrets  of  his  grateful  country. 


DR.  DAVID  RAMSAY. 

The  literary  character  of  Dr.  Ramsay  does  honour 
to  his  country;  his  political  conduct  during  the  Revo- 
lutionary war  no  less  honour  to  himself.  The  dawn  of 
hostility  found  him  with  a  reputation  for  talents,  in- 
tegrity, and  patriotism,  which  his  conduct  throughout 
the  contest  seemed  to  extend  and  embellish.  It  was  the 
peculiar  characteristic  of  the  American  Revolution,  that 
the  men  the  most  distinguished  for  genius  and  virtue 
were  its  advocates.  In  the  ranks  of  the  Rebels  (as  the 
English  delighted  to  call  them)  were  found  almost  all 
the  orators,  statesmen,  and  philosophers,  of  whom  the 
country  could  boast.  Lawyers  who  had  attained  the 
highest  distinction  in  the  Legislature,  and  at  the  bar ; 
Physicians  who  had  become  eminent  for  their  science 
and  professional  skill ;  Merchants  who  had  acquired 
wealth  and  honour  by  commercial  enterprise;  and  even 
ministers  of  the  Gospel,  who,  by  their  learning  and 
piety,  had  endeared  themselves  to  the  people,  all  united 


^^'     RAMSAY.  179 

their  efforts  in  the  common  cause.     Thus  was  dignity 
given  to  the  contest,  and  the  public  feeling  was  excited 
to  a  state  of  the  most  noble  enthusiasm.  The  influence 
of  Dr.  Ramsay's  example  was  felt  and  acknowledged 
by  all.     He  was  universally  esteemed  as  a  man  of  pro- 
fessional learning,  and  of  the  purest  patriotism,  and  he 
was  known  to  be  governed  in  all  his  actions  by  a  deep 
sense  of  moral  and  religious  duty.     The  purity  of  his 
life  was  considered  as  the  best  evidence  of  the  upright- 
ness of  his  views.     The  zeal  with  which  he  espoused 
the  cause  of  freedom,  could  not  fail  then  to  produce  a 
powerful  effect  on  the  minds  of  the  timid  and  scrupu- 
lous.    Dr.  Ramsay  never  hesitated  a  moment  as  to  the 
part  he  should  take  in  the  struggle.     With  an  earnest- 
ness and  ardour  which   no  danger  or  difficulty  could 
impair,  he  embarked  his  life  and  fortune  in  the  cause 
of  liberty  and  his  country.     He  was  one  of  the  earliest 
advocates  for  independence,  and  in  every  period  of  the 
war  he  wrote,  and  spoke,  and  acted,  with  the  greatest 
zeal  and  ability  for  the  accomplishment  of  that  glorious 
object.     As  a  a  member  of  the  Council  of  Safety,  of 
the   Provincial   Legislature,  and  finally  of  the  Con- 
tinental Congress,  he  was  always  distinguished  for  his 
eloquence  in  debate,  his  wisdom  in  council,  and  his 
promptitude  and  energy  in  action.    Having  engaged  in 
the   contest  from  principle.   Dr.  Ramsay  pursued  his 
course  with  a  devotion  and  perseverance,  which  proved 
that  his  heart  was  in  the  work.     The  press  teemed 
with  the  ingenious  productions  of  his  pen ;  and  at  all 
public  meetings  his  eloquence  was  exerted  to  sustain 
the  pride  and  spirit  of  the  people.     Regardless  of  his 
private  interests,   he   never  hesitated  to  perform  any 
labour,  or  to  incur  any  risk,  which  the  general  welfare 
seemed  to  require.     When  his  professional   services 
were  called  for  he  constantly  joined  the  army,  and  was 
present  with  the  Charleston  Ancient  Battalion  of  Artil- 
lery at  the  siege  of  Savannah,     It  was  natural  that 


180  RAMSAY. 

such  a  man  should  become  the  peculiar  object  of  the 
vengeance  of  the  enemy.  He  was  accordingly  one  of 
the  victims  selected  by  Lord  Cornwallis  to  be  banished 
to  St.  Augustine.  After  an  exile  of  eleven  months,  in 
coneqnence  of  an  exchange  of  prisoners,  he  was  re- 
leased and  returned  to  Carolina,  joining  Governor 
Rutledge  at  the  Hills  of  Santee,  and  shortly  after  took 
his  seat  as  a  member  of  the  Legislature,  convened  at 
Jacksonborough.  Though  he  had  just  suffered  great 
indignity  from  the  injustice  and  violated  faith  of  the 
enemy,  yet  always  superior  to  bad  passions,  and  incapa- 
ble of  revenge,  he  exerted  his  great  talents  and  influ- 
ence in  the  Assembly  to  prevent  the  passage  of  the 
Confiscation  Acts,  and  to  lessen  the  punishments  de- 
nounced against  political  offenders.  These  honour- 
able exertions  were  not  crowned  with  success,  yet  still 
the  praise  is  due  to  Dr.  Ramsay  of  having  sacrificed 
his  personal  feelings,  and  made  a  noble  effort  to  stem 
the  torrent  of  public  indignation,  which  was  then 
sweeping  before  it  many  of  the  wisest  and  best  men  of 
the  State. 

During  the  Revolution  he  was  carefully  treasuring 
up  materials  for  a  History  of  its  eventful  scenes,  his 
ardent  character  never  permitting  him  to  doubt  the 
final  success  of  his  countrymen,  and  the  establishment 
of  American  Independence.  In  the  year  1785,  he 
published  his  History  of  the  Revolution  in  South 
Carolina,  and  in  1790,  he  gave  to  the  world  his  general 
History  of  the  American  Revolution.  No  man  could 
have  brought  to  the  composition  of  such  works,  higher 
qualifications,  or  a  more  valuable  stock  of  information. 
He  was  aware,  that  his  feelings  as  an  American  Pa- 
triot, might  affect  his  impartiality  and  bias  his  judg- 
ment ;  and  he  also  knew,  that  a  faithful  detail  of  facts, 
would  probably  be  received  at  that  period,  by  both 
parties,  with  dissatisfaction.  He  set  out,  therefore, 
with  a  firm  resolution,  as  he  himself  declares,  *'  to 


RAMSAY.  -  181 

tieclinethe  fruitless  attempt  of  aiming  to  please  either 
party,  and  to  follow  the  attractions  of  truth  whither- 
soever she  might  lead."  In  the  prosecution  of  fchis 
honourable  determination,  "I  declare,"  (says  he)  "that 
in  the  whole  course  of  my  writing,  I  have  carefully 
watched  the  wotkings  of  my  mind,  lest  passion,  pre- 
judice, or  party  feeling  should  warp  my  judgment ;  and 
I  have  endf^ivoured  to  imj)ress  on  myself,  how  much 
more  honourable  it  is  to  write  impartially  for  the  good 
of  posterity,  than  to  condescend  to  be  the  apologist  of 
a  party."  No  higher  praise  can  be  bestowed  on  Dr. 
Ramsay,  than  to  say,  that  he  acted  on  these  noble  prin- 
ciples in  the  composition  of  all  his  works.  By  the 
Histories  above  alluded  to,  and  those  which  he  after- 
wards published.  Dr.  Ramsay  acquired  the  distin- 
guished api)ellation  of  The  American  Historian,  and 
erected  for  himself  a  monument  as  lasting  as  time. 

The  character  of  Dr.  Ramsay's  eloquence  was  alto- 
gether striking  and  peculiar.  I  never  heard  on  the 
floor  of  our  Legislature,  a  Speaker  whose  harangues 
were  better  calculated  to  impress  on  his  audience,  the 
truths  which  he  wished  to  inculcate.  His  arguments 
always  forcible,  and  admirably  arranged,  were  brought 
forward  with  peculiar  effect ;  for,  so  strong  was  his 
expression  of  feeling,  that  it  was  imt)Ossible  not  to  be- 
lieve him  sincere.  His  biographer,  on  this  subject,  ex- 
presses himself  as  follows  : — "  Dr.  Ramsay  was  a 
remarkably  fluent,  rapid,  and  ready  speaker  ;  and 
though  his  manner  was  ungraceful — though  he  neglec- 
ted all  ornament,  and  never  addressed  himself  to  the 
imagination,  or  the  passions  of  his  audience,  yet  his 
style  was  so  simple  and  so  pure,  his  reasoning  so 
cogent,  his  remarks  so  striking  and  original,  and  his 
conclusions  resulted  so  clearly  from  his  premises,  that 
he  seldom  failed  to  convince."*     Dr.  Ramsay  retained 

*  Vide  the  Biographical  Memoir  of  Dr.  Ramsay,  prefixed  to  his  History  of 
the  United  States.    That  Memoir  was  written  by  Colonel  Robert  Y.  Hayse, 


182  RAMSAY. 

his  style  of  speaking,  in  all  its  original  ardour,  purity, 
and  force,  to  the  period  of  his  death. 

As  a  Politician,  Dr.  Ramsay  was  always  remarkable 
for  his  candor  and  liberality.  As  an  instance  of  this, 
it  may  be  here  mentioned,  that  he  had  on  one  occasion, 
expressed  doubts  of  the  correctness* of  the  principles 
on  which  the  association  of  the  Cincinnati  is  founded  ; 
and  in  common  with  nvdny  others,  entertained  fears  of 
the  tendency  of  that  Society,  to  build  up  an  Aristo- 
cracy in  this  country.  Experience,  '^  the  best  test  of 
truth,"  fully  convinced  him  of  his  error  ;  and  the  late 
war  with  Great  Britain,  having  brought  the  patriotism 
of  its  Members  to  the  test,  gave  occasion  to  Dr.  Ram- 
say, voluntarily,  to  assure  the  author,  that  he  was  so 
fully  convinced  of  the  Republican  virtues  of  the  Cin- 
cinnati^that  should  he  publish  another  edition  of  his 
History,  he  would  acknowledge  the  error  of  the  opi- 
nions he  had  formerly  entertained  on  the  subject.  This 
expression  of  his  sentiments,  induced  the  submission  to 
his  perusal  of  an  admonitory  address  to  a  youthful 
Member,  recently  admitted  into  the  Society,  when  with 
great  expression  of  feeling  he  exclaimed — ''  I  will 
venture  to  assert,  that  this  young  man  never  heard  a 
sermon  which  did  hiai  so  much  good.  While  such 
your  lectures,  and  such  the  principles  inculcated  into 
the  youthful  mind,  I  know  of  no  association  more 
likely  to  benefit  society  than  the  Cincinnati."  From 
a  man  of  so  serious  a  turn  of  mind,  a  higher  compli- 
rnent  could  not  have  been  paid  ;  and  I  have  ever 
lamented,  that  his  untimely  fate  prevented  the  display 
of  a  liberality  which  would  have  done  him  the  highest 
honour. 

of  this  city,  being  the  substance  of  an  Oration  delivered  by  him,  onthe  occa- 
.  sion  of  Dr.  Ramsay's  deatli,  before  the  Literary  and  Philosophical  Society  of 
South  Carolina,  published,  by  the  request  of  that  Society,  in  the  Analectic 
Magazine,  and  afterwards  prefixed  to  Dr.  Ramsay's  History. 


DRAYTON.      ,  l^S 


WILLIAM  HENRY  DRAYTON. 

It  had  long  been  a  source  of  mortification  to  the 
Colonists,  that  no  attention  had  been  paid  to  native 
talents,  and  that  as  often  as  a  post  of  trust  or  emolu- 
ment became  vacant,  that  instead  of  being  filled  up  by 
a  choice  from  the  candidates  for  distinction,  with  whom 
both  tlie  Courts  and  the  Legislature  abounded,  some 
needy  adventurer,  or  parasitical  sycophant,  was  seen 
to  arrive,  whose  only  merit  consisted  in  the  art  of  bow- 
ing with  humility  to  his  superiors,  or  whose  favour  was 
derived  from  the  fascinating  influence  of  some  pretty 
relative,  who  had  skill  to  impress  on  an  influential 
minister,  the  conviction  that  he  was  qualified  to  sup- 
port the  dignity  of  Britain  in  her  Colonies.  There 
w^ere  (ew  communities  in  which  a  greater  display  of 
ability  was  shown  than  in  Carolina.  What  country 
icould  boast  of  superior  talents  to  those  exhibited  by 
Peter  Manigault,  William  Wragg,  John,  Edward  and 
Hu^Ji  Rutledge,  Charles  Cotesworth  and  Thomas 
Pinckney,  Rawlins  Lowndes,  William  and  William 
Henry  Drayton,  Thomas  Bee,  John  Matthews,  David 
Ramsay,  Jacob  Read,  and  very  many  others;  but  thes^ 
W"ere  characters  two  honest  and  proud  in  spirit,  im- 
pliciily  to  obey  the  dictates  of  a  power  daily  encroach- 
ing on  the  liberties  of  the  people,  and  alone  intent  to 
reduce  them  to  a  submission  tiiat  would  have  led  them 
to  lick  the  dust  beneath  the  foot  that  spurned  them. 
Their  talents  and  their  virtues  appeared  but  feeble 
claims  to  distinction,  and  their  being  natives.  :v.:  insur- 
mountable bar  to  success.  Twice  had  the  respectable 
Lieutenant  Governor  Bull  been  insulted  by  a  cruel 
departiire  from  the  regular  rotine  of  succession,  having 
men  of  tiie  very  meanest  capacities  put  over  him.  It 
is   certainly   no   scandal  to  say,   that    the   two   last 


184  DRAYTON. 

Governors  under  the  royal  administration,  were  de- 
ficient even  in  common  understanding,  owing  their 
promotion  entirely  lo  their  rank,  and  the  powerful 
influence  of  their  families.  There  were  among  the 
judges  some  men  of  ability,  but  the  majority  of  them, 
were  miserably  deficient  in  political  and  general  in- 
formation, and  of  professional  knowledge  altogether 
ignorant.  It  has  often  been  said  of  Chief  Justice 
Shiuner,  that  he  never  opened  a  law  book  till  he 
was  actually  on  his  passage  to  America.  Of  the 
qualifications  of  Judge  Futerel,  a  little  anecdote  will 
give  an  adequate  idea.  At  a  dancing  assembly,  having 
too  freely  sacrificed  to  Bacchus,  he  lay  extended  on  a 
bench,  in  a  retiring  room,  confused  with  liquor,  when 
perceiving  a  gentleman  pulling  off  his  coat  for  the  pur- 
pose of  changing  a  waistcoast  that  had  been  accidentally 
soiled,  he  leapt  up,  and  putting  himself  into  a  boxing 
attitude,  exclaimed,  "  O  damn  you,  if  you  are  for  that 
sport,  I'm  at  home — come  on."  Such  were  our  Gov- 
ernors, such  the  men  sent  from  the  Parent  State  to 
administer  justice. 

A  reference  to  an  interesting  debate  in  the  British 
House  of  Commons,  more  fully  illustrates  the  extent 
to  which  such  insult  towards  the  Colonists  were 
carried.  George  Grenville,  exclaiming,  "  Sliall  these 
Americans,  our  own  children,  planted  by  our  cares, 
nourished  by  our  indulgence,  dare  to  resist  our  de- 
crees," &c.  &c.  &c.  Colonel  Barre  caught  the  words, 
and  with  manly  eloquence  said,  "  They  nourished  by 
our  indulgence  ?  They  grew  up  by  our  neglect ;  and 
as  soon  as  you  began  to  care  about  them,  that  care  was 
exercised  in  sending  persons  to  rule  over  them,  in  one 
department  and  another,  who  were  perhaps  the  depu- 
ties of  the  deputies  of  some  members  of  this  House, 
sent  to  spy  upon  their  liberty,  to  misrepresent  their 
actions,  and  to  prey  upon  them.  Men  whose  behavfour, 
on  many  occasions,  has  caused  the  blood  of  these  sons 


DRAYTON.  i85 

^of  liberty  to  recoil  within  them ;  men  promoted  to  the 
highest  seats  of  justice,  some  of  whom,  to  my  know- 
ledge, were  glad  by  going  to  foreign  countries,  to 
escape  the  vengeance  of  the  laws  in  their  own." 

At  the  commencement  of  the  Revolution  William 
Henry  Drayton,  who  officiated  as  one  of  the  Assistant 
Judges,  was  the  only  member  of  the  bench  who  was  a 
native  American.  His  part  was  promptly  taken,  and 
with  decision.  His  ardour  to  support  the  liberties  of 
his  country  was  so  highly  estimated,  as  to  cause  his 
immediate  nomination  to  the  Presidency  of  the  Pro- 
vincial Congress.  His  abilities  were  confessedly  great, 
and  popular  talents  considered  so  well  calculated  to 
conciliate  the  wavering  and  unfriendly,  and  effect 
their  adherence  to  the  cause  of  their  country,  that,  in 
conjunction  with  the  Rev.  Mr.  Tennant,  he  was  sent 
into  the  interior  expressly  to  effect  the  union  of  parties, 
and  to  excite  a  general  and  firm  opposition  to  British 
tyranny.  The  seeds  of  disaffection,  however,  were 
already  too  generally  sown.  The  enemies  to  Revolu- 
tionary principles  temporized,  but  as  speedily  as  the 
hope  revived  of  being  supported  by  a  competent  British 
force,  broke  out  in  open  hostility,  and  it  was  quickly 
found  that  the  swords  of  Sumter  and  of  Pickens  more 
effectually  produced  the  performance  of  their  duties 
than  the  persuasive  eloquence  of  Tennant,  and  com- 
manding oratory  of  Drayton.  His  letters  published 
expressly  to  controvert  the  machinations  of  the  British 
commissioners,  holding  out  the  fallacious  hope  of  con- 
ciliation, have  been  considered  as  replete  with  irresis- 
tible arguments,  and  written  in  the  best  style  of  com- 
position. His  Strictures  also  on  the  conduct  of  Gene- 
ral Charles  Lee  disobeying  orders  at  the  battle  of 
Monmouth,  and  calling  in  question  the  military  capa- 
city of  General  Washington,  have  been,  by  a  great 
majority  of  the  Union,  very  highly  approved. 

24 


186  EDWARDS. 


MR.  JOHN  EDWARDS, 

It  must  appear  both  injudicious  and  unjust,  that 
Mr.  John  Edwards  has  been  so  little  noticed.  This 
name  has  been  scarcely  mentioned  in  the  records  of 
our  Revolution  ;  yet,  there  was  no  citizen  of  the 
republic,  in  whose  bosom  the  love  of  liberty  glowed 
with  more  generous  enthusiasm.  Possessing  wealth 
beyond  any  other  mercantile  man  of  the  day,  he  was 
the  first  individual  in  Carolina  who  tendered  his  for- 
tunes in  snpport  of  the  American  cause.  His  friend, 
the  venerable  Josiah  Smith,  was  no  less  liberal  in  his 
loans  to  Government ;  and  it  cannot  be  doubted,  but 
that  their  example  must,  in  a  great  degree,  have  con- 
tributed to  give  stability  to  public  credit;  and  to  induce 
many  of  less  sanguine  hopes,  to  risk  their  fortunes  for 
the  public  good.  Warned  by  his  more  prudential 
friends,  that  he  placed  too  much  at  hazard ;  that 
the  success  of  America,  opposed  to  the  power  of  Bri- 
tain, could  scarcely  be  expected  ;  and  that  the  total 
loss  of  his  ample  possessions  might  follow :  With  a 
feeling  of  patriotism  that  cannot  be  too  highly  appre- 
ciated, he  replied — "  Be  it  so  !  I  would  rather  lose 
my  all,  than  retain  it,  subject  to  British  authority." 
His  subsequent  conduct  gives  ample  testimony,  that 
this  was  no  vain  boasting.  Shortly  after  the  fall  of 
Charleston,  invited  to  a  conference  by  Admiral  Ar- 
buthnot,  who  was  quartered  on  him,  and  occupied  the 
principal  apartments  of  his  bouse,  a  conversation  took 
place,  the  purport  of  which,  immediately  after  the 
conclusion,  was  communicated  by  him  to  his  son  in 
law,  Mr.  John  Bee  Holmes,  from  whom  I  received  it. 
"  Nothing,  Mr.  Edwards,"  said  the  Admiral,  "  has 
appeared  more  extraordinary  to  Sir  Henry  Clinton 
and  myself,  than  that  yow,  a  native  of  Great  Britain, 


EDWARDS.  187 

should  have  taken  part  with  the  Rebels,  and  appeared, 
throughout  the  contest,  a  strenuous  and  decided  advo- 
cate of  revolutionary  principles.     How,  Sir,   is  it  to 
be   accounted    for  ?"      "  Because,"  replied  Mr,   Ed- 
wards, "  I  conscientiously  approved  and  have  solemnly 
pledged   myself  to   support  them."     "  But,  Mr.  Ed- 
wards," rejoined  the  Admiral,  "  as  a  man  of  sense, 
however,  you  may  have  been  heretofore  deluded,  your 
eyes  must  now  be  opened  to  the  futility  of  resistance  ; 
and  as  a  man  of  honour,  you  are  bound,  by  every 
means  in  your  power,  to  aid  in  promoting  the  submis- 
sion of  the  people,  by  a  reconciliation  with  the  merciful 
Government,  that  would  obliterate  every  recollection 
of  past  offences,  and  again  receive  them  with  favour 
and  forgiveness.     We  know  that  your  influence  can 
do  much — that  many  look  up  to  you  for  the  regulation 
of  their  own  conduct — we  know  too,  that    no  indi- 
vidual has  suffered  such  heavy  pecuniary  loss,  by  the 
depreciation  of  the  paper  currency,  as  yourself     Re- 
ject   not,    therefore,   the    liberal     and    advantageous 
proposition    which   I  am  about  to  make  you.     Take 
protection  yourself— recommend  it  to  your  friends  to 
follow  your  meritorious  example — use  your  best  en- 
deavours to  put  down  opposition  to  the  British  autho- 
rities, and  you  shall  be  forthwith,  not  only  remunerated 
for  every   loss  that  you  have  sustained,  but  for  the 
good  effected  through  your  means,  a  pecuniary  reward 
shall  be  granted   you,  equal  to  your  most   sanguine 
desires."     "  Admiral  Arbuthnot,"   said  Mr,  Edwards, 
"  it  is  not  the  temptations  of  wealth  that  shall  ever 
induce  me  to  forfeit  ray  honour.     I  cannot  hesitate  to 
choose,  where  duty,  inclination,  and  every  virtuous 
principle  point  out  the  course  which  it  becomes  me  to 
pursue.     My  losses  have  been  great,  but  they  cost  me 
not  a  sigh.      My  monies  were  lent,  to  support  a  cause 
which  I  consider  that   of  justice  and  humanity.     I 
have  a  wife,  tenderly  beloved,  and  ten  children  worthy 


188  EDWARDS. 

of  my  most  ardent  affection.  They  are  all  dependent 
upon  me,  and  I  may  probably  have  little  to  leave  them 
but  good  principles  and  an  untarnished  reputation  ; 
but,  were  a  gallows  to  be  raised  by  your  order,  in 
my  view,  and  you  were  to  say — Your  fate  depends 
upon  your  resolve — take  protection  or  perish — I  would, 
without  a  moment's  hesitation — die  /" 

If  the  traits  of  character  which  I  have  exhibited, 
are  acceptable  to  public  sentiment,  and  have  a  claim  to 
applause,  how  much  must  admiration  of  his  patriotic 
conduct  be  increased,  when  it  is  remembered,  that 
hearing  in  council  the  magnanimous  proposition  to 
await  the  event  of  an  assault,  and  to  devote  the  lives 
of  the  Garrison  of  Charleston  to  the  attainment  of 
general  good,  rather  than  surrender  to  the  enemy,  he 
nobly  supported  the  opinion,  and  herorically  declared 
for  death  in  preference  to  submission.  "  I  would 
rather,"  he  exclaimed,  "  that  my  breast  should  meet 
the  British  bayonet,  than  that  my  signature  should  be 
given  to  any  proposition  recommending  the  surrender 
of  the  city." 

Supporting  all  the  severities  of  exile  and  persecution 
at  St.  Augustine,  with  unshaken  fidelity  to  his  coun- 
try, he  was  sent  with  the  companions  of  bis  misfor- 
tunes, after  the  happy  negotiation  of  Major  Hyrne  for 
the  exchange  of  prisoners,  to  Philadelphia.  There, 
his  virtues  gained  him  respect — his  misfortunes  friends. 
He  died  in  exile,  and  was  interred  amidst  the  regrets 
of  an  admiring  people,  whose  pity  for  his  sufferings 
could  only  be  surpassed  by  their  a[)plause  and  admi- 
ration of  the  firmness  with  which  he  supported  them. 


MATTHEWS.  189 


GOVERNOR  MATTHEWS. 

To  this  distinguished  patriot  I  have  ever  considered 
the  citizens  of  the  Southern   States  as  peculiarly  in- 
debted.    It  might  at  this  late  period  be  difficult  to 
prove  the  fact,  it  must  indeed  at  any  time  have  excited 
astonishment,  but  I  have  heard  him  repeatedly  declare, 
that  after  the  defeat  of  General  Gates  near  Camden, 
when  the  cloud  that  overshadowed  the  prospects  of 
America  wore  its  darkest  hue,  and  even  to  the  Revo- 
lutionists, the  most  sanguine  of  success,  the  enfeebled 
rays  of  hope  were  scarcely  percepitible,  that  through 
the  intrigues,  and  at  the  suggestion  of  the  French  Am- 
bassador, it  was  contemplated  to  bring  forward  a  pro- 
position in  Congress  to  purchase  from  Great  Britain, 
peace,  and  the  independenmj  of  a  large  portion  of  the 
United  States,  by  the  sacrifice  of  the   Carolinas  and 
Georgia.     Nor  did  he  conceal  the  name  of  the  indi- 
vidual who  had  engaged  to  introduce  and  advocate  the 
measure.     Fired  with  resentment,  indignant  that  even 
in  the  private  circles  of  society  a  proposal  so  base  and 
disgraceful  should  have  been  whispered — that  it  should 
have  been  admitted  into  an  American  bosom,  he  deter- 
mined at  once  to  put  the  virtue  of  the  Delegated  Repre- 
sentatives  of  his  country  to  the  test.     Repairing  to 
Congress,  he  forcibly  reminded  them  of  their  bond  of 
union  ;  that  the  several  States  were  pledged  to  each 
other,  through  every  variety  of  fortune,  to  accomplish 
the  end  of  their  association,  or  to  fall  together.  "  I  will 
regard  the  man,"  he  exclaimed,  "  who  would  attempt 
to  weaken  these  sacred  ties  as  the  fit  object  of  univer- 
sal execration ;  and  in  the  event  that  the  members  of 
Congress  should  so  far  debase  themselves,  as  to  listen 
to  his  nefarious  proposal,  after  having,  in  conjunction 
with  my  colleagues,  protested  against  the  measure,  and 


190  MATTHEWS. 

pointed  out  the  source  of  the  evil,  I  will  say  to  my 
constituents,  make  your  own  terms  with  the  enemy — 
no  longer  regard  as  associates,  nor  put  your  trust  in 
men,  who  appalled  by  their  fears,  and  under  the  influ- 
ence of  a  foreign  j)ower,  to  secure  themselves  from 
harm,  make  no  scruple  to  doom  their  friends  to  de- 
struction." Happily  for  our  country  the  energetic  con- 
duct of  our  Delegates  crushed  the  intrigue  in  embryo. 
It  never  saw  the  light.  Mr.  Bee  and  Colonel  Eveleigh 
very  nobly  supported  Mr.  Matthews  on  this  momentous 
occasion. 

Sometime  subsequent  to  the  writing  of  the  anecdote 
above  recorded,  1  learnt  from  General  Thomas  Pinck- 
ney,  that  while  with  Governor  Rutledge  at  Camden, 
subsequent  to  the  fall  of  Charleston,  he  was  in- 
formed by  him  that  he  had  received  a  letter  from 
a  member  of  the  South-Carolina  Delegation  in  Con- 
gress, (probably  Mr.  Matthews,  to  whom  he  was  allied 
by  the  strictest  ties  of  friendship,)  informing  him,  that 
despondency  for  the  fate  of  the  Southern  States  was 
the  universal  sentiment,  but  that  he  still  indulged  the 
hope  that  Carolina  would  remain  a  member  of  the 
Union.  But  that  some  discussion  had  occurred  in 
Congress,  corresponding  with  the  rei)resentation  made 
by  Governor  Matthews,  is  more  clearly  demonstrated 
by  the  copy  of  a  declaration  made  by  that  respectable 
body,  June  25th,  1780,  and  extracted  from  Rivington's 
New- York  Royal  Gazette,  September  13th  of  the 
same  year,  which,  under  other  circumstances,  would 
have  been  altogether  superfluous,  and  inconsistent  with 
common  sense. 

"  Whereas,  it  has  been  reported  in  order  to  seduce  the  States  of 
South-Carolina  and  Georgia  from  their  allegiance  to  the  United  States, 
that  a  treaty  of  peace  betwixt  America  and  Great  Britain  was  about 
to  take  place,  and  that  these  two  States  would  be  ceded  to  Great 
Britain, 


MATTHEWS.  191 

"  Resolved  unanimously,  That  the  said  report  is  insidious,  and 
utterly  void  of  foundation.  That  this  confederacy  is  most  sacredly 
pledged  to  support  the  liberty  and  independency  of  every  one  of  the 
members  ;  and  in  a  firm  reliance  on  the  Divine  blessing,  will  unremit- 
tingly persevere  in  every  exertion  for  the  establishment  of  the  same, 
and  for  the  recovery  and  preservation  of  any  and  every  part  of  the 
said  United  States  that  have  been,  or  may  hereafter  be  invaded  or 
possessed  by  the  common  enemy. 

"  Extract  from  the  minutes. 

«  CHARLES  THOMPSON,  SecVy." 


BENJAMIN  GUERARD. 

The  distresses  of  the  Patriotic  Citizens  of  South 
Carolina,  transported  to  Philadelphia,  were  sufficient 
in  their  nature  to  engender  the  most  gloomy  despair. 
Hospitality  opened  the  doors  of  the  inhabitants  to 
many  families,  who  were  kindly  sheltered,  and  treated 
with  the  most  cordial  affection.  But  there  were  many 
unfortunates,  accustomed  through  life  to  possess  every 
essential  comfort,  who  were  destitute  of  common  ne- 
cessaries, and  not  a  few  who  actually  wanted  bread, 
I  record  it  to  the  honour  of  Mr.  Benjamin  Guerard,  a 
gentleman  of  extensive  property,  that  he,  upon  this 
occasion,  generously  stepped  forward,  and  offered  to 
pledge  his  estate  as  a  security,  to  raise  a  sum  to  be 
exclusively  appropriated  to  the  maintenance  of  his 
suffering  Countrymen,  demanding  no  greater  share  for 
himself,  than  that  which  should  be  allowed  to  every 
other  individual.  Carolina  estates,  however,  were 
regarded  as  castles  in  the  air,  and  his  generous  inten- 
tions proved  altogether  abortive. 

It  would  be  painful  to  me,  to  neglect  to  mention 
names  where  just  claims  to  humanity  existed.  My 
information  is  limited.     Such  individuals  as  I  knew 


192  GUERARD. 

pre-eminently  distinguished  by  their  efforts  to  give 
relief,  I  am  proud  to  speak  of.  Dr.  Bond,  Mr.  Wikoff, 
Colonel  Pettit,  Mr.  Ingersoll,  Dr.  Logan,  and  many 
others,  were  liberal  with  delicacy,  and  doubled  the 
obligation  by  bestowing  their  favours  without  osten- 
tation. Nor  should  it  ever  be  forgotten  in  Carolina, 
that  Colonel  John  Mitchell,  so  much  the  victim  of 
misfortune  in  his  latter  years,  who  lived  in  Philadelphia 
at  that  period,  in  ease  and  affluence,  never  failed, 
as  occasion  required,  to  sooth  the  afflictions  of  the 
exiles,  by  every  attention  that  benevolence  could 
bestow. 


I  am  sensible,  that  to  many  of  my  readers  a  consi- 
derable portion  of  the  Anecdotes  which  I  record,  may 
appear  uninteresting,  but  as  they  relate  to  men,  to  re- 
collect whom,  gives  pleasure  not  only  to  myself,  but 
to  all  who  remember  their  constancy  and  exemplary 
good  conduct  in  times  "that  tried  men's  souls,"  I  am 
inclined  to  persist. 

JUDGE  BURKE, 

Thboughout  the  whole  of  the  Revolution,  acted  a 
very  conspicuous  part.  He  was  a  steady  and  inflexible 
Patriot,  and  zealous  supporter  of  the  Laws.  The 
people  had  not  an  advocate  more  ready  to  maintain 
their  just  rights,  nor  a  more  prompt  opponent,  when- 
ever they  manifested  the  slightest  disposition  to  licen- 
tiousness. He  always  meant  well,  though  he  frequently 
took  an  awkward  way  of  showing  it,  and  secured 
confidence  by  his  unremitted  endeavours  to  deserve  it. 

It  had  been  much  the  fashion,  towards  the  close  of 
the  war,  for  persons  wishing  to  avoid  militia  service. 


BURKE.  193 

to  attach  themselves  as  volunteers  to  the  regular  Con- 
tinental Regiments,  engaging  to  take  the  field  vvhen- 
€ver  called  upon  ;  but  it  speedily  appeared,  that  self- 
indulgence  was  much  more  their  real  object,  than 
public  good.  To  counteract  this  practice,  a  Bill  was 
introduced  into  the  Legislature  at  Jacksonborough,  to 
compel  every  man  to  serve  in  the  Militia  Regiment  io 
which  he  was  enrolled.  Judge  Burke,  on  this  occa- 
sion, after  using  many  arguments  in  support  of  the 
Bill,  concluded  by  saying — "  I  shall  give  but  one 
reason  more,  Mr.  Speaker,  against  the  volunteer  sys- 
tem, and  that  is  a  very  powerful  one.  Your  volunteers 
.ar«  a  set  of  very  shabby  fellows,  and  I  have  a  good 
right  to  say  it,  1  am  a  volunteer  myself"  Travelling 
the  Circuit  some  years  previous  to  the  period,  when  an 
improved  system  of  education  had  completely  extin- 
guished a  ferocity  of  character,  which  tolerated  goug- 
ing, biting,  and  other  disgraceful  practices,  and  being 
asked  why  he  carried  pistols  of  unusual  size  and 
caliber :  he  replied — "  As  the  best  specific  for  the 
preservation  of  my  eye  sight — country  frolics  too  fre- 
quently producing  blindness." 

The  system  of  espionage,  however  disgraceful  to 
the  party  who  undertakes  to  betray,  being  resorted  to 
in  every  war,  has  been  regardejd  as  altogether  justifiable 
on  the  part  of  the  Officer  who  seeks  intelligence.  To 
individuals  communicating  information  relative  to  the 
movements  of  the  enemy,  both  General  Greene  and 
General  Marion  had  promised  protection,  and  release 
from  the  penalties  attached  to  their  political  offences. 
This  was  a  measure,  in  the  highest  degree,  revolting 
to  a  large  proportion  of  the  Members  of  the  House  of 
Representatives,  who  steadily  maintained — "  that  to 
men  so  lost  to  every  honourable  feeling,  the  rights  of 
citizenship  should  never  be  granted."  The  singularity 
of  Judge  Burke's  reasoning  on  this  subject,  occasioned 
much  amusement.     He  briefly  said — "  I  am  at  a  loss, 


194  BURKE. 

Mr.  Speaker,  to  conjecture,  what  the  gentlemen  would 
be  at.  The  Generals  were  authorized  to  engage 
Spies,  who  would  be  tempted  to  betray  the  secrets  of 
the  Government  they  professed  to  honour  ;  and  having 
done  so,  this  House  is  bound  to  fulfd  every  contract 
that  they  have  made.  They  proudly  assert,  what  in 
my  conscience  I  have  little  inclination  to  deny — that 
such  men  would  be  bad  citizens  any  where.  But, 
Spies  are  confessed  to  be  a  necessary  evil  ;  and  I 
should  be  glad  to  know,  if  the  gentlemen  ever  expect 
to  find  honest  men,  who  will  undertake  the  dirty  work 
required  of  them,  and  act  the  part  of  villains,  to  pro- 
mote the  public  good  ?  No,  Mr.  Speaker.  You  are 
at  liberty  to  despise  the  traitors,  while  you  profit  by 
their  treason.  You  may  cut  tlieir  acquaintance — you 
may  withhold  the  compliment  of  your  hat,  your  hand, 
and  your  heart ;  but,  protected  by  the  pledge  given  by 
the  Generals,  that  they  should  be  restored  to  their 
rights,  and  pardoned  for  their  political  criminality,  the 
less  that  is  said  on  the  subject  the  better,  since  these 
Scoff's,  Yahoos  as  they  are,  are  as  truly  citizens  as 
any  of  us." 

Sending  a  challenge  to  a  person  who  had  grossly 
ofTended  him,  he  thus  expressed  himself: — "  Sir,  I 
must  insist  upon  your  giving  me  immediate  satisfaction, 
for  having  so  far  imposed  on  me,  as  to  make  me  be- 
lieve for  a  single  moment,  that  you  were  a  man  of 
honour,  or  a  gentleman." 

I  myself  remember  to  have  heard  him  relate  the 
circumstances  contained  in  the  Anecdote  which  fol- 
lows : 

When,  to  give  permanency  to,  and  increase  the 
strength  of  the  Union,  the  adoption  of  the  Federal 
Constitution  was  strongly  recommended  by  the  most 
enlightened  of  our  citizens,  Judge  Burke  stood  forth 
its  strenuous  opposer,  using  li/s  utmost  efforts  to  render 
it  hateful  to  the  people  ;  but,  when  he  found  that  a 


BURKE.  195 

great  majority  were  of  a  different  sentiment,  and  that 
its  acceptance  was  sanctioned  by  their  applauses,  he 
gave  up  opposition,  and  studiously  endeavoured  to  give 
energy  to  all  its  operations. 

Returnin^s;  from  a  Circuit  in  the  interior,  he  hap- 
pened, on  one  occasion,  to  fall  in  with  a  long  train  of 
wagons  near  Nelson's  Ferry,  conveying  produce  from 
North  Carolina  to  Charleston.  With  their  conductors 
he  immediately  engaged  in  conversation,  and  wishing 
to  ascertain  their  opinions  of  passing  events,  asked — 
"  If  they  thought  the  recently  adopted  Constitution  of 
the  United  States,  would  prove  useful  and  acceptable 
to  the  People."  The  reply  was  unanimous — "  By  no 
means.  We  abominate  it,  and  to  such  a  degree,  that 
should  the  President  think  proper,  on  any  emergency, 
to  call  us  into  the  field,  we  would  refuse  obedience  to 
a  man."  "  Tell  that,"  said  the  Judge,  "  to  some  one 
that  does  not  know  you.  Refuse  to  obey  the  call  of 
your  Chief  Magistrate,  when  )'our  country  is  in  jeo- 
pardy ! — impossible  !  Look  to  the  discipline  which 
every  mother's  son  of  you  keep  up  on  your  Farms, 
when  you  wish  to  know  the  extent  and  condition  of 
your  stock.  Do  you  not  blow  your  conchs,  and  do 
not  your  cattle,  and  your  sheep,  your  pigs,  and  your 
poultry  gather  about  you,  as  it  were  to  ask  your  com- 
mands ?  And  when  danger  threatens,  and  the  Presi- 
dent blows  his  conch,  to  call  you  to  your  duty,  would 
you  have  me  believe,  that  you  would  be  more  insen- 
sible than  the  beasts  of  the  field  ?  The  protection 
which  the  Government  which  he  administers  affords, 
is  to  you  what  feed  is  to  your  hogs  ;  and  at  the  first 
blast,  not  one  of  the  swinish  herd  would  be  more  nim- 
ble in  seeking  his  rations,  than  you  would  be  in  the 
opportunity  of  repelling  aggression."  *'  You  are  a 
very  free  spoken  man,"  said  one  of  his  auditors,  "  and 
may,  perhaps,  be  a  clever  one  ;  but,  for  your  want  of 
civility  in  comparing  us  to  our  hogs,  be  pleased  to 


196  BURKE. 

pass  to  the  fear ;  you  cross  not  the  River  till  the  last 
of  our  wagons  has  reached  the  opposite  shore."  The 
Judge  was  forced  to  comply  ;  but,  recollecting  that  his 
presence  was  required  by  a  particular  time  in  another 
quarter,  he,  at  the  risk  of  his  life,  swam  his  horses, 
and  paddled  himself  across  the  River,  admiring  the 
independency  of  character  in  men,  who  would  not 
tol(Mate  incivility  even  from  a  Judge. 

Shortly  after  the  evacuation  of  Charleston,  Judge 
Burke,  under  the  signature  of  Cassius,  attacked  with 
much  point,  and  decided  effect,  the  acts  of  the  Jack- 
sonborough  Assembly  against  those  who  had  submit- 
ted and  taken  British  protections.  I  have  always 
thought  that  the  censures  which  he  lavished  on  this 
occasion  would  not  have  been  received  so  favourably, 
if  obnoxious  individuals  had  been  allowed  to  plead  in 
justification  of  their  conduct,  or  if  particular  penalties 
had  been  attached  to  particular  crimes.  But  contrary 
to  every  principle  of  justice,  prejudice  reigned  with 
unlimited  sway,  and  under  the  protection  of  influential 
friends,  many  escaped  even  censure,  for  the  very  acts 
for  which  others  were  banished,  and  fined  to  the  full 
extent  of  their  possessions.  Wealth  was  too  frequently 
regarded  as  an  indication  of  crime  ;  and  in  committee, 
on  the  reading  over  the  names  of  the  accused,  the  cry 
of  "  a  fat  sheep;  a  fat  sheep — prick  him  !  prick  him  !" 
Was  followed  by  immediate  condeinnation,  unless  some 
nian  of  influence,  or  friend  to  humanity,  in  pity,  under- 
took to  palliate  the  misconduct  of  the  offender,  and  by 
his  eloquence  averted  the  blow  which  was  to  destroy 
him.  In  his  last  hours  he  exhibited  the  same  humour 
and  eccentricity  that  had  distinguished  him  through 
life. 

On  the  day  previous  to  his  death,  having  been  tap- 
ped by  Dr.  Irvine  for  a  dropsy,  he  said,  "  well  Irvine, 
what  am  I  to  expect;  is  the  decree  life  or  death." 
*'  LifCj  my  good  fellow,"  said  Irvine.     You  are  an 


BURKE.  197 

Irishman,  and  will  yet  last  a  long  time."  "  Then,  by 
Jasus,"  said  Burke,  "  I  shall  be  the  first  thing  that 
ever  lasted  long  in  this  house,  after  being  once  put  on 
tap." 


CAPTAIN  RICHARD  GOUGH. 

It  is  a  tribute  justly  due  to  the  independent  spirit  of 
Cai)tain  Richard  Gough  to  record,  that  having  in  vain 
opposed  proceedings  so  abhorrent  to  justice,  as  those 
already  mentioned,  he  vacated  his  seat  in  the  Jackson- 
borough  Assembly,  declaring,  "  that  he  could  never 
remain  a  vtitness  to  the  condemnation  of  a  man  who 
was  not  allowed  the  privilege  to  state,  in  his  own 
defence,  the  motives  which  had  decided  his  conduct." 

The  magnanimity  of  this  gentleman  on  another  oc- 
xiasion,  is  highly  deserving  of  praise.  Having  been  a 
prisoner,  he  had  been  thrown  into  irons,  and  treated 
with  peculiar  indignity.  A  change  in  the  political  oc- 
currences of  the  time,  highly  favourable  to  America, 
having  taken  place,  many  of  the  adherents  of  Britain, 
repenting  the  imprudence  of  their  conduct,  wished,  by 
a  full  confession  of  error,  to  be  admitted  to  the  rights 
of  citizenship.  An  American,  who  had  interested  him- 
self very  highly  in  favour  of  an  individual  subjected  to 
the  penalties  of  the  Confiscation  Law,  making  an 
appeal  to  the  humanity  of  Cai)tain  Gough,  said,  "  I  am 
sensible  that  it  is  only  necessary  for  you  to  oppose  the 
petition  in  his  behalf,  which  will  be  presented  to  the 
Legislature,  to  ensure  its  failure."  "  Make  yourself 
easy,  then,"  was  the  generous  reply.  "  Give  me  the 
petition,  I  will  present  and  suport  it,  and  shall  be  happy 
if  that  prevents  opposition   from  any  other  quarter. 


198  GOUGH. 

The  war  is  brought  to  a  happy  conclusion — m}'  resent- 
ments are  no  more."  It  gave  additional  lustre  to  this 
act  of  generosity,  that  a  little  before,  while  at  supper 
with  his  aged  mother,  he  had  been  lired  upon  and 
desperately  wounded  by  a  Tory  party  from  the  British 
garrison. 


EXEMPLARY  CONDUCT  OF  THE  CLERGY. 


It  is  a  highly  gratifying  circumstance  to  perceive,  from  the  perusal  of 
the  interesting  "  History  of  the  Episcopal  Church  in  South-Caro- 
lina,^^  by  the  Reverend  Dr.  Dalcho,  that  five  only  out  of  twenty 
of  the  Clergy  of  that  persuasion,  adhered  to  the  British  cause. 

BISHOP  SMITH. 

The  late  Bishop  Smith  shouldered  his  musket,  and 
amidst  scenes  of  the  greatest  danger,  both  by  precept 
and  example,  stimulated  to  intrepid  resistence.  Made 
a  prisoner  at  the  surrender  of  Charleston,  immediate 
banishment  followed  his  captivity.  Such  was  the  ap- 
prehension of  his  influence,  that,  thougii  ill  and  con- 
fined to  his  bed,  a  centinel  placed  over  him,  was  not 
allowed  to  quit  his  chamber,  till  he  was  taken  from  it 
under  a  guard,  to  be  transported  to  Philadeli)hia. 

The  nature  of  my  work  permits  me  to  speak  of  his 
political  conduct  alone.  To  his  credit,  however,  I 
must  state,  that  blessed  with  opulence,  his  charities 
were  unbounded.  The  poor  and  the  needy  wept  his 
departure  with  unfeigned  sorrow.  Benevolence  was 
enthroned  in  his  heart.  His  Clerical  Brothers  found 
in  him  a  friend,  and  mourned  in  him  a  Father.  Many 
charitable  institutions  were  benefited,  both  by  his 
exertions  and  by  his  liberality  ;  but  the  Clergy  Society, 
which,  with  utility  beyond  the  reach  of  praise,  gives 


200  SMITH,  PERCY  AND  LEWIS. 

relief  to  the  bereaved  widow,  and  rescues  the  helpless 
orphan  from  the  pangs  of  want  and  misery,  originating 
with  him,  was,  to  his  latest  hour,  fostered  with  pecu- 
liar delight. 


THE  REV.  DR.  PERCY 

Frequently  preaehed  to  the  troops,  encouraging 
them  to  intrepid  exertions,  and  a  patient  endurance  of 
the  privations  necessarily  connected  with  their  situa- 
tion. He  was  the  first  Orator  who  addressed  the 
people  on  the  Anniversary  of  our  Independence.  His 
steady  conduct  being  highly  offensive  to  the  British 
authorities,  he  was  ordered  to  relinquish  his  clerical 
duties,  as  soon  as  Charleston  fell,  under  the  penalty  of 
a  dungeon  ;  and  to  avoid  persecution,  retired  to 
Europe. 


IHE  REV.  MR.  LEWIS, 

Of  St.  Paul's,  was  a  firm  advocate  for  Indepen- 
dence, and  an  indefatigable  agent  in  promoting  its 
accomplishment.  Delivering  a  patriotic  discourse  on 
the  text — "  The  Lord  forbid  that  I  should  give  the 
inheritance  of  my  fathers  unto  thee;"  he  became  par- 
ticularly obnoxious  to  the  British  Commanders,  was 
exiled  to  St.  Augustine  with  many  other  Patriots,  but 
was  speedily  separated  from  them,  and  shut  up  in  the 
Castle,  and  till  the  period  of  his  exchange,  condemned 
to  solitary  confinement. 


PURCELL,  TERQUAND  AND  WARREN.  201 


THE  REV.  DR.  PURCELL 

Was  equally  firm  in  his  principles ;  and  acting  as 
Deputy  Judge  Advocate  in  the  field,  supported  all  the 
difficulties  and  dangers  of  campaigning,  with  exem- 
plary patience  and  intrepidity. 


THE  REV.  PAUL  TERQUAND 

Served  as  a  member  in  the  First  Provincial  Con- 
gress, and  distinguished  himself,  not  only  in  his  legis- 
lative capacity,  but  by  his  oratorical  powers,  and  his 
animating  address  to  that  respectable  body  from  the 
pulpit,  and  for  which  he  received  their  unanimous 
thanks. 


THE  REV.  SAMUEL  WARREN, 

Galled  by  interesting  concerns  to  Europe  at  the 
commencement  of  the  Revolution,  was  tempted  by  all 
the  arts  of  persuasion,  and  offers  of  liberal  preferment, 
by  a  brother,  a  Dignitary  in  the  established  Church,  to 
remain  in  England  ;  but,  with  a  soul  superior  to  all 
selfish  consideration,  he  thought  only  of  the  good  that 
might  flow  from  his  exertions  in  the  cause  of  Liberty ; 
returned  to  America  ;  with  unremitted  zeal  performed 
every  duty,  braved  every  danger,  and  both  by  precept 
and  example,  to  the  conclusion  of  the  contest,  pointed 
out  the  road  to  honour  and  renown. 

26 


202  ..  SMITH. 


Nor  is  Ipss  praise  due  to  the  Clergy  of  other  deno- 
minations, who,  with  unshaken  zeal  and  firmness, 
were  reckoned  among  the  most  strenuous  supporters 
of  the  Revolution. 

THE  REV.  JOSIAH  SMITH, 

Pastor  of  the  Independent  Church,  though  ad- 
vanced to  his  77th  year,  disdaining  to  receive  the 
favour  which  would  have  been  allowed  him,  of  re- 
maining in  Charleston,  from  an  enemy  who  had 
wantonly  violated  the  terms  of  capitulation,  granted 
to  the  inhabitants,  went  into  banishment  with  his 
family,  and  died  an  exile. 


THE  REV.  MR.  TENNANT  ^ 

Stands  pre-eminetly  distinguished.  He  was  born  in 
New-Jersey,  in  the  year  1740,  and  educated  at  the 
College  of  Princetoa.  where,  in  1758,  he  received  a 
bachelor's  degree,  ana  was  two  years  after  licensed  to 
preach.  He*  first  settled  in  Connecticut,  but  after  a 
lapse  of  ten  years,  accepted,  on  invitation,  the  pastoral 
charge  of  the  Independent  Church  in  Charlesron,  and 
arrived  there  in  1772,  As  a  man  of  learning,  eloquence, 
and  piety,  he  was  held  in  high  estimation.  It  is  my 
province  to  speak  more  particularly  of  his  Revolution- 
ary services;  and  here  there  is  an  ample  field  for 
praise.  His  life,  from  the  earliest  dawn  of  hostility, 
was  devoted  to  the  service  of  his  country,  and  the 
whole  tenor  of  his  conduct  gave  unequivocal  proof, 
that  he  considered  religion,  liberty,  and  happiness,  im- 
plicated in  her  success.  The  vigour  of  his  mind  would 


TENNANt.  205 

not  suffer  him,  under  such  circumstances,  to  act  an 
inferior  part.     He  boldly   stepped  forward  the  cham- 
pion of  Liberty   and   Independence — with    zeal   and 
eloquence  preached  resistance,  nor  failed  to  support  it 
with  all  his  energies.     As  a  Member  of  the  Provincial 
Congress,  and  afterwards  of  the  House  of  Assembly, 
he,  in  his  legislative  capacity,  acquired  great  celebrity, 
and  so  forcibly  impressed  upon  the    minds  of  his  col- 
leagues, the  conviction  of  his  superi^  and  persuasive 
talents,  that  in  conjunction  with  thclionourable  Wil- 
liam Henry  Drayton,  he    was    delegated   to  visit   the 
disaffected   districts   of  the  interior   country;   by  the 
exercise  of  his  abilities,  to  demonstrate  to  the  misguided 
both  the  weakness  and  wickedness  of  their  conduct ; 
and  by   dint  of  reason,   to  reconcile   them  to   those 
patriotic  measures  which  could  alone  save  their  coun- 
try from  destruction.     This  was  a  service  of  extreme 
difficulty  and  danger.     Supicion  had  exerted  its  bane- 
ful influence.     Motives  and  designs  were  reciprocally 
attributed  by  the  opposite  parties  to  each  other,  of  the 
most   ungenerous   nature  and  mischievous  tendency. 
Camps  were  formed  preparatory  to  open  contention, 
and  the  whole  country  breathed  the  spirit  of  war.     A 
conference,  however,  betwixt  the  leaders,  put  a  tem- 
porary stop   to   hostility.     The    Loyalist  engaged    to 
remain  in  a  state  of  neutrality,  aad   both  parties  re- 
tired to  their  homes.     The  good  that  was   expected 
from  the  commission  of  the  Delegates,  was  not  as  ex- 
tensive as  the  government  had  anticipated  ;  but  their 
eloquence  was  not  without  its  effect.     Many  men  of 
character  and  influence,  were  induced  to  sign  the  Asso- 
ciation, and  renouncing  their  errors,  became  the  steady 
supporters  of  the  popular  cause. 

To  sum  up  his  character  as  a  Politician,  it  is  no 
exaggeration  to  say,  that  resistance  to  oppression,  and 
firmness  in  supporting  the  just  rights  of  the  people, 
were  the  cherished  doctrines  of  his  heart  ;  and  to  have 


204  TENNANT. 

attained  their  accomplishment,  he  would   have  laid 
down  his  life  rejoicing. 

The  respect  to  his  memory,  by  the  Congregation 
over  which  he  presided,  is  feelingly  demonstrated  by 
the  inscription  on  his  Monument,  erected  by  them  in 
their  Archdale-street  Church. 

In  memory 

Of  the  Reverend  WILLIAM  TENNANT,  A.  M. 

0^    Pasfnr  of  this  Church, 

and  principally  instrumental  in  the 

erection  of  this  bulldmg, 

dedicated  to  the  worship  of 

Almighty  God, 

who  died  at  the  High  Hills  of  Santee, 

August  nth,  1777, 

in  the  thirty-seventh  year  of  his  age. 

He  was  distinguished  for 

quickness  of  perception, 

solidity  of  judgment, 

energy  and  firmness  of  mind, 

for  inflexible  patriotism 

and  ardent  public  spirit, 

for  the  boldness  with  which  he  enforced 

the  claims  of  the  Deity, 

and  vindicated  the  rights  of  Man. 

As  a  Preacher,  he  was  prompt,  solemn, 

instructive  and  persuasive — 

of  €very  social  virtue,  he  was  a  bright  example. 

"  Blessed  are  the  dead  who  die  in  the  Lord" 

His  valuable  life  terminated  while  discharging  a 
filial  duty,  bringing  his  aged  and  recently  widowed 
mother  from  New  Jersey  to  Carolina. 


FURMAN.  205 


THE  REV.  DR.  FURMAN. 

With  great  delight  I  mention  a  faithful  servant  both 
of  God  and  the  Republic,  who  still  lives  an  ornament 
and  blessing  to  society.  lo  the  field  a  hero,  in  private 
life,  I  know  no  man,  that  by  the  uniform  display  of 
talent  and  of  virtue,  does  greater  honour  to  humanity 
than  Doctor  Furman.  Strenuous  in  opposition  to  the 
invaders,  he  fought  and  he  preached  with  energy  and 
effect,  and  the  recollection  of  his  zeal  'to  promote 
unanimity  and  steady  resistance  to  the  encroachments 
of  an  enemy,  who  but  a  little  time  since,  would  agaia 
have  disturbed  the  tranquillity  of  his  country,  demon- 
strated that  the  patriot  fire  that  warmed  his  youthful 
bosom,  burns  even  in  advanced  life  with  all  its  pristine 
purity  and  effulgence. 


■iH 


CONDUCT  OF  OUR  ALLIES,  THE  FRENCH. 


It  is  tribute  of  justice  due  to  our  Allies,  the  French, 
to  state,  that  during  our  Revolutionary  struggle  for 
Freedom,  they  invariable  endeavoured  to  harmonize 
with  our  citizens,  relinquishing,  on  most  occasions, 
with  distinguished  politeness,  their  own  modes  and 
prejudices,  to  conform  themselves  to  the  habits  and 
customs  of  America.  They  did  indeed  carry  their 
desire  to  please  and  conciliate  to  such  an  extent,  that  I 
remember,  on  one  occasion,  a  French  Officer  being 
asked  by  General  M'Intosh,  (presiding  at  a  Court 
Martial,  and  desirous  to  administer  an  oath,  that  his 
evidence  should  be  given  with  impartiality) — "  Of 
what  Religion  he  was  ?"  replied  very  readily — "  The 
American,  Sir  ;"  thinking,  undoubtedly,  that  it  was 
a  duty  to  conform  as  much  as  possible  to  the  religious 
opinions  of  the  people  in  whose  cause  he  had  drawn 
his  sword.  And  this  appears  the  more  probable,  for 
time  being  allowed  for  reflection,  and  the  question 
varied,  by  substituting  what  faith,  instead  of  what 
Religion,  he  exclaimed — C^est  Men  une  autre  affaire 
— Roman  Catholique  Apostolique,  Mon  General. 

It  is  needless  to  speak  of  their  bravery.  They  were 
Frenchmen,  and  enthusiastically  attached  to  the 
opinions  imbibed  in  favour  of  Liberty  and  Republican- 
ism. Their  intrepidity  was  exem|)lary,  and  gave  them 
daily  new  claims  to  the  admiration  and  gratitude  of 
the    people,   whose  rights    and   properties   they  had 


DE  CARENDEFFEZ.  207 

pledged  themselves  to  defend.  To  bring  forward  the 
examples  that  might  be  produced  of  the  valour  of 
individuals,  would  be  to  extend  my  volume  far  beyond 
the  limits  prescribed ;  and  in  naming  one,  I  might 
offend  mukitudes.  Yet,  there  is  a  charm  in  gallantry 
when  displayed  in  early  youth,  which  is  attended  with 
irresistible  fascinations ;  and,  at  a  risk,  I  will  subject 
myself  to  the  imputation  of  partiality,  rather  than  pass 
over  a  few  selected  incidents  that  appear  to  have  a 
peculiar  claim  to  applause. 


BARON  DE  CARENDEFFEZ. 

At  the  siege  of  York,  the  young  Baron  de  Caren- 
deffez,  now  an  inhabitant  of  our  city,  then  about  the 
age  of  fifteen,  was  sent  into  the  Magazine  to  distribute 
ammunition  for  the  use  of  the  French  artillery,  and 
while  seated  on  a  barrel  of  powder,  saw  a  shell  from 
the  enemy  fall  within  two  feet  of  his  position.  The 
Soldiers  who  were  in  the  Battery,  expecting  imme- 
diate explosion,  ran  off  in  every  direction.  The  intre- 
pid youth  remained  unmoved.  The  expected  catas- 
trophe, however,  did  not  follow — the  fuse  of  the  shell 
was,  in  its  flight,  extinguished.  This  being  perceived 
by  the  fugitives,  the  Battery  was  immediately  reoccu- 
pied,  when  Captain  Lemery,  the  commanding  Officer, 
addressing  himself  to  the  youth,  who  still  retained  his 
seat,  said — "  You  young  rogue,  why  did  you  not  fly 
the  impending  danger  ?  Why  not  embrace  a  chance 
for  life  ?  "  Because,  Captain,"  he  heroically  replied, 
"  my  duty  required  that  I  should  make  a  distribution 
of  ammunition,  and  not  desert  my  post,  and  fly  like  a 
poltroon  !" 


208  DE  BUYSSOiN. 


CHEVALIER  DE  BUYSSON. 

The  chivalrous  gallantry  of  the  Chevalier  De  Buys- 
son,  the  Aid-de-Camp  of  the  Baron  De  Kalb,  cannot 
be  too  much  admired.  Perceiving  his  General  fall, 
every  idea  of  personal  safety  was  abandoned  ;  and 
rushing  towards  him,  he  generously  offered  his  own 
breast  as  a  shield  to  the  body  of  his  expiring  friend, 
till  covered  with  wounds,  and  faint  from  the  loss  of 
blood,  he  was  compelled  to  withhold  resistance,  and 
yielded  up  his  sword  to  the  enemy. 


THE    CHEVALIER    DUgLESSIS  MAUDUIT, 

A  YOUNG  and  gallant  Frenchman,  whose  enthusiastic 
devotion  to  Liberty,  had  induced  him,  at  the  age  of 
sixteen,  to  undertake  a  journey  into  Greece,  expressly 
to  view  the  scenes  where  her  defenders  had  so  reso- 
lutely contended  against  the  encroachments  of  tyranny 
and  oppression,  and  who  now,  in  his  twentieth  year, 
had  drawn  his  sword  in  the  cause  of  America,  has  the 
credit  of  having  displayed  the  most  romantic  gallantry 
at  the  battle  of  Germantown.  Perceiving  the  division 
of  the  army,  to  which  he  was  attached,  severely  galled 
by  a  heavy  and  destructive  fire  from  Chew's  house, 
into  which  Colonel  Musgrave,  of  the  British  army, 
had  thrown  himself  with  his  regiment.  He  imme- 
diately brought  up  two  pieces  of  artillery,  (six-pound- 
ers) with  the  hope  to  dislodge  them  ;  but  speedily 
finding  that  the  cannonade,  from  the  size  of  the  guns, 
produced  no  effect,  he  proposed  to  Colonel  Laurens  to 
set  fire  to  the  principal  door  of  entrance,  by  carrying 


MAUDUIT.  209 

forward  a  quantity  of  combustible  matter,  and  thus 
obtain  access  to  the  interior.  The  attempt  was  made, 
but  without  success.  The  heroic  intrepidity  of  two 
dauntless  spirits  could  not  conquer  impossibilities. 
Laurens  approached  so  near,  as  actually  to  make  a 
thrust  with  his  small  sword  through  a  shot  hole,  at  an 
Officer  within  the  building,  nor  desisted  from  his 
efforts  to  force  a  passage,  till  a  wound  compelled  him 
to  retire.  The  Chevalier  Mauduit  attempted  to  gain 
admission  through  a  window  on  the  ground  floor  which 
he  had  forced,  and  actually  saw  an  Officer,  who  reso- 
lutely opposed  his  entrance,  killed  by  a  musket  shot, 
precipitately  fired,  and  evidently  intended  for  his 
bosom.  Every  hope  of  success  having  vanished, 
retreat  was  the  only  resource  for  security,  but  resolved 
rather  to  die,  than  incur  ridicule  by  running  off,  he 
retired  with  slow  and  deliberate  step,  and  more  fortu- 
nate than  his  comrade,  without  the  slightest  injury. 

The  laurels  gained  by  this  chivalrous  youth,  in  the 
successful  defence  of  the  fortress  at  Red  Bank,  against 
a  powerful  detachment  of  Hessians,  led  on  by  Colonel 
Donop,  were  no  less  honourable  to  him.  So  certain 
were  the  assailants  of  victory,  so  confident  of  their 
own  superiority,  both  in  discipline  and  valour,  that  on 
their  approach  to  the  American  lines,  one  of  their 
Officers,  advancing  in  front  of  his  troops,  exclaimed— 
"  The  King  of  England  orders  his  rebellious  subjects 
to  lay  down  their  arms  ;  and  they  are  warned,  that  if 
they  stand  the  battle,  no  quarters  whatever  will  be 
given."  It  was  immediately  answered — "  Agreed  ! 
The  challenge  is  accepted  !  There  shall  be  no  quar- 
ter granted  on  either  side !"  It  is  unnecessary  to 
detail  particulars  of  the  action  that  immediately  fol- 
lowed. The  defeat  of  the  Hessians  was  complete. 
Their  leader,  and  a  large  proportion  of  the  detach- 
ment fell.  It  might  have  been  expected,  after  the 
threatening  denunciation  of  vengeance  held  out,  that 

27 


210  '  MAUDUIT. 

in  just  retaliation,  indulgence  might  have  been  given  to 
resentn>ent;  but,  with  victory,  humanity  regained  its 
benign  influence  in  every  American  bosom,  and  the 
vanquished  experienced  every  kind  and  benevolent 
attention  that  could  sooth  their  misfortunes,  and  teach 
them  more  highly  to  appreciate  the  courage  and  for- 
bearance of  an  enemy,  against  whom  they  were 
prepared  to  exercise  such  deadly  animosity.  The  un- 
fortunate Donop,  who  fell  mortally  wounded,  turning, 
when  nearly  in  the  agonies  of  death,  to  M.  de  Mau- 
duit,  said  with  great  expression  of  feeling — "  My 
career  is  short.  I  die  the  victim  of  my  ambition,  and 
of  the  avarice  of  my  King  ;  but  in  dying  in  the  arms 
of  honour,  I  have  no  regrets." 

I  cannot  quit  the  generous  Mauduit  without  noticing 
his  lamentable  and  untimely  fate.  On  the  3d  of 
March,  1791,  the  day  previous  to  his  assassination, 
the  Baron  de  Carendeffez,  with  a  few  others  of  his 
friends,  repaired  to  the  Government  House  at  Port-au- 
Prince,  the  spirit  of  revolt  being  then  at  its  height  in 
the  Island  of  St.  Domingo,  to  warn  him  of  the  dan- 
ger which  threatened  him,  the  storm  ready  to  burst 
on  his  head,  and  emphatically  said — '*  Your  regiment — 
the  regiments  of  Artois  and  Normandie  are  in  insur- 
rection— the  sailors  in  the  port,  and  every  miscreant 
in  the  place,  have  sworn  your  destruction — believe 
the  information  we  give  you — quit  this  scene  of  horror 
— ^you  cannot  otherwise  escape  destruction  !"  "  With 
dignity,"  he  replied,  "  1  know  the  risk  that  I  run — 
the  danger  to  which  I  expose  myself  ;  but  honour  bids 
me  remain  at  my  post.  Death  is  my  destiny— I  ex- 
pect it.  But,  there  stands  my  commander,  (pointing 
out  M.  de  Blanchelande) — if  he  bids  me  depart,  I 
obey  ;  if  he  does  not,  I  die  on  this  spot !"  He  then 
added — "  Remember,  my  friends,  that  I  predict,  that 
that  scoundrel  will  save  himself,  leaving  me  to  pay 
the  forfeit."     He  judged  with  accuracy  ;  the  General 


MAUDUIT,  FLEURY  AND  DE  KALB.  211 

ffed  to  Cape  Francois,  leaving  the  brave  Mauduit  at 
the  mercy  of  infuriate  assassins,  to  whose  ferocity  he 
became  an  immediate  victim.  It  was  not  long,  how- 
ever, before  he  paid  the  price  of  so  pusilanimous 
an  abandonment.  He  sailed  for  France,  but  being 
arrested  at  the  moment  of  his  arrival,  perished  by  the 
hands  of  the  executioner. 


LIEUTENANT  COLONEL  FLEURY, 

Who  had,  on  many  previous  occasions,  displayed 
the  most  heroic  gallantry,  particularly  distinguished 
himself  at  the  storming  of  the  British  post  at  Stoney 
Point.  How  great  the  difficulties  he  had  to  encounter, 
in  his  approach  to  the  Redoubt  of  the  enemy,  how 
invincible  the  resolution  of  the  troops  he  commanded, 
to  surmount  them,  may  be  justly  estimated,  when  it  is 
remembered,  that  Lieutenant  Gibbon,  who  led  the 
forlorn  hope  of  Fleury's  column,  with  the  chivalric 
gallantry  which  characterized  his  entire  conduct,  re- 
moved the  abbatis,  and  entered  the  post  sword  in  hand, 
losing  seventeen  out  of  the  twenty  heroes,  attached  to 
him  on  this  perilous  enterprize.  History  has  attri- 
buted to  the  Lieutenant  Colonel,  the  honour  of  having 
struck  the  colours  of  the  enemy  with  his  own  hands. 


BARON  DE  KALB. 

Although  a  native  of  Germany,  yet,  from  his  long 
course  of  service  in  the  armies  of  France,  1  cannot  but 
consider  the  Baron  as  a  Frenchman ;  especially,  as  it 


212  DE  KALB. 

appears  more  than  probable,  that  during  the  entire 
period  of  his  holding  an  American  commission,  he 
continued  a  pensioner  of  that  government,  and  one  of 
its  most  indefatigable  agents.  From  his  own  represen- 
tations it  is  evident,  that  during  the  war  of  1757,  he 
had  visited  the  Colonies  of  Great  Britain,  by  the  direc- 
tion of  the  Court  of  France,  expressly  to  ascertain  the 
points  in  vi^hich  they  were  the  most  vulnerable,  and  to 
discover  how  far  it  was  practicable,  by  well-timed  in- 
sinuations, and  winning  intrigue,  to  generate  dissatis- 
faction, and  excite  a  suspicious  jealousy  against  the 
mother  country,  so  as  to  shake  their  confidence  in  the 
purity  of  her  views,  and  beget  and  cherish  a  desire  of 
asserting  their  independence.  In  political  negotiations 
it  cannot  be  doubted,  but  that  its  own  peculiar  interests 
and  aggrandizement  is  the  cherished  object  of  every 
State.  If  there  are  any  who  believe  that  the  conduct 
of  France,  in  taking  part  with  America  in  her  struggle 
for  Independence,  proceeded  either  from  attachment  to 
her  as  a  nation,  or  an  admiration  of  the  principles  that 
had  caused  her  to  oppose  the  encroachments  of  Britain 
on  her  rights,  their  error  is  extreme ;  since  enmity  to 
Great  Britain,  and  the  hope  of  profiting  by  her  misfor- 
tunes, was  the  great  first  cause  of  her  hostility,  and,  I 
conscientiously  believe,  the  sole  object  of  her  wishes — 
the  great  end  of  her  interference.  There  never  existed 
a  nation  more  pointedly  distinguished  than  the  French, 
by  the  felicitous  talent  of  discovering  the  influences 
operating  on  the  governments  with  which  they  were 
connected,  studiously  counteracting  them  where  they 
militated  against  her  wishes;  encouraging  and  directing 
them  wheresoever  according  with,  and  likely  to  pro- 
mote her  own  views.  The  great  anxiety  shown,  on  all 
occasions,  by  the  Baron  de  Kalb,  to  secure  the  memo- 
randa of  passing  events,  which  were  written  in  cipher, 
•regularly  entered  in  a  book,  and  transmitted  to  the 
French  Ambassador  at  Philadelphia,  give  just  reason 


DE  KALB.  213 

to  suppose  that  more  was  contained  in  his  correspon- 
dence with  that  distinguished  character,  than  he  wished 
to  meet  the  eyes  of  the  associates  who  surrounded 
him.  His  connection  with  France  was  doubtless  simi- 
lar to  that  of  other  officers  of  that  nation,  serving  in 
America ;  the  nature  of  which  may  be  easily  under- 
stood, by  a  reference  to  an  intercepted  letter  from 
General  Du  Portail  to  the  Count  de  St.  Germain, 
Minister  of  War,  dated  "  Camp  at  White  Marsh,  four 
miles  from  Philadelphia,  November  12th,  1777,"  which 
may  be  found  in  Stedman's  History  of  the  American 
War,  vol.  1.  p.  390.  Intent  only  on  the  great  object  of 
his  mission,  the  transmission  of  secret  intelligence  to 
his  trans-atlantic  friends,  and  regardless  of  his  obliga- 
tions to  the  government  whose  bread  he  ate,  and  whose 
character  he  was  bound  by  every  sense  of  duty  to  de- 
fend, we  find  him  calumniating  them  without  a  blush, 
and  boldly  asserting,  "  it  has  not  been  owing  to  the 
good  conduct  of  the  Americans,  that  the  campaign 
upon  the  whole  has  terminated  rather  fortunately,  but 
to  the  fault  of  the  English."  Again,  "  before  the  war 
the  American  people,  though  they  did  not  live  in 
luxury,  enjoyed  in  abundandance  every  requisite  to 
make  life  comfortable  and  happy ;  they  passed  a  great 
part  of  their  time  in  smoking,  and  drinking  wine  or 
spirituous  liquors.  Such  was  the  disposition  of  the  peo- 
ple. Sore  against  the  grain,  then,  their  sudden  transfor- 
mation into  soldiers,  reduced  to  lead  a  life  of  hardships 
and  frugality;  nor  will  it  be  considered  surprising,  that 
they  should  prefer  the  yoke  of  the  English,  to  Liberty 
purchased  at  the  expense  ofthe  comforts  of  lite."  Still 
further;  "  you  will  be  astonished.  Sir,  at  this  language, 
but  such  are  these  people, — who  move  without  spring 
or  energy,  without  vigour,  without  passion  for  a  cause 
in  which  they  are  engaged,  and  which  they  follow 
only  as  the  impulse  of  the  hand  that  first  put  them  in 
motion  directs.     There  is  a  hundred  times  more  en- 


214  I>E  KALB. 

thusiasm  for  this  Revolution  in  any  of  our  coffee- 
houses in  Paris,  than  in  all  the  thirteen  Provinces 
united."  Again  ;  "  It  is  necessary,  then,  that  France, 
to  accomplish  this  Revolution,  should  furnish  these 
people  with  every  requisite  to  lessen  the  hardships  of 
"War.  True,  it  will  cost  some  millions,  but  they  will 
be  well  kid  out  in  annihilating  the  power  of  England, 
which,  when  bereft  of  her  Colonies,  without  a  navy, 
and  without  commerce,  will  lose  her  consequence  in 
the  world,  and  leave  France  without  a  rival."  Speak- 
ing of  the  policy  of  sending  French  troops  to  America, 
he  adds,  "  that  would  be  the  way  to  mar  all.  The 
people  here,  though  at  war  with  the  English,  (we  see 
it  every  day,)  in  si)ite  of  all  that  France  has  done,  and 
means  to  do  for  them,  would  prefer  a  reconciliation 
with  the  English,  rather  than  receive,  in  force,  the  men 
in  the  world  they  most  fear."  And  finally,  concludes 
this  precious  epistle  by  saying,  '*  I  have  perhaps,  Sir, 
in  my  letter,  exceeded  what  you  required,  but  pardon 
the  length  of  the  dissertations  I  have  gone  into,  from  a 
desire  to  satisfy  your  wishes,  and  render  my  stay  here 
as  useful  as  it  is  in  my  power  to  make  it." 

That  "  no  man  can  serve  two  masters,"  we  know 
from  the  very  highest  authority.  Preferences  will  be 
given,  and  preference  is  injury.  That  these  political 
adventurers  would  act  with  vigour  against  the  com- 
mon enemy,  there  can  be  no  doubt ;  they  would  fight 
for  America  to  repel  the  encroachments  of  Britain,  but 
bring  into  competition  the  interests  of  France  with 
those  of  America,  and  every  wish  for  the  prosperity  of 
their  adopted,  would  be  lost  in  their  devotion  to  their 
native  country.  Yet,  while  I  mention  these  circum- 
stances, the  more  clearly  to  develope  the  decidedly  in- 
terested views  of  France,  and  the  services  required  of 
her  agents,  serving  under  the  banners  of  America, 
although  they  necessarily  diminish  the  claims  of  the 
Baron  de  Kalb  to  the  pure  and  disinterested  patriotism, 


DE  KA.LB.  215 

that,  as  a  leader  of  an  army  contending  for  the  most 
sarred  rights  of  man,  he  might  be  supposed  to  possess, 
I  allow  him  every  possible  merit  as  a  soldier,  and  the 
most  exalted  claims  to  applause  for  the  gallantry  with 
which  he  fought;  the  unruffled  temper  and  patient  re- 
signation with  which  he  viewed  the  approach,  and  met 
the  stroke  of  death.  Nor  is  he  less  to  be  applauded 
for  the  grateful  recollection  expressed  for  the  exem- 
plary intrepidity  of  the  Delaware  and  Maryland  Regi- 
ments which  he  commanded,  sending,  even  in  the 
agonies  of  death,  by  his  Aid-de-Camp,  the  Chevalier 
De  Buysson,  his  warmest  thanks  for  their  heroic  exer- 
tions, and  expressing  his  delight,  that  though  unsuc- 
cessful in  battle,  he  had  led  into  action  men  so  highly 
meriting  the  palm  of  victory. 


THE  MARQUIS  DE  LA  FAYETTE. 

The  meritorious  services  of  this  gallant  young  noble- 
man, are  too  well  known  to  every  American,  to  need 
recapitulation  here.  He  certainly  appeared  to  engage 
in  the  Republican  cause,  with  more  enthusiasm,  and 
to  feel  more  genuine  and  sincere  attachment  to  the 
citizens  of  the  United  States,  than  any  foreigner  in  the 
service.  He  was  brave  almost  to  a  fault;  in  executing 
orders,  romantically  so :  but  when  intrusted  with  sepa- 
rate command,  though  possessing  all  the  fire  of  youth, 
conducted  himself  with  a  degree  of  caution  and  pru- 
dence, that  would  have  been  creditable  to  the  calm 
temper  and  circumspection  of  age.  He  was  generous 
in  the  extreme.  On  his  very  first  landing  in  Carolina, 
in  testimony  of  his  respect  and  high  admiration  of  the 
gallant  defence  made  by  General  Moultrie,  of  the  pass 


216  DE  LA  FAYETTE. 

at  Sullivan's  Island,  he  presented  liim  with  clothing, 
arms,  and  accoutrements  for  one  hundred  men.  When 
in  command  at  the  North,  every  officer  serving  under 
him  received  a  present  of  a  handsome  sword;  and 
there  was  not  a  private  in  the  line,  who  did  not,  by 
his  liberal  distribution  of  clothing  and  other  comforts, 
reap  the  benefit  of  his  sympathy  and  benevolence.  Full 
of  ardour  during  the  contest  for  victory;  wheresoever 
an  advantage  was  obtained,  humanity  appeared  the 
leading  feature  in  his  character,  since  he  invariably 
showed  far  greater  disposition  to  sooth  than  aggravate 
misfortune.  1  have,  in  another  place,  given  a  noble 
example  of  his  forbearance,  when  storming  one  of  the 
advanced  redoubts  of  the  British  at  York  Town.  In 
short,  he  possessed  in  so  high  a  degree  the  character 
of  an  accomplished  and  perfect  soldier,  as  to  gain  the 
confidence  of  his  superiors,  the  affections  of  his  equals, 
and  the  respect  and  veneration  of  all  who  served  under 
him.  It  is  no  trifling  compliment  to  say,  that  next  to 
the  Commander  in  Chief,  and  the  intrepid  Greene,  no 
General  stood  higher  in  the  public  favour,  or  more 
constantly  commanded  the  admiration  of  the  army, 
than  La  Fayette. 


DISTINGUISHED  NAVAL  OFFICERS. 


It  would  be  an  unpardonable  dereliction  of  duty, 
did  I  neglect  to  mention  the  services  of  several  Naval 
Officers,  who,  even  from  the  very  earliest  period  of  the 
revolutionary  struggle  for  Independence,  gave  strong 
indication,  and  flattering  presage  of  that  superior  skill 
and  spirit  of  enterprise,  that  has,  in  latter  limes,  so 
highly  exalted  the  reputation  of  the  American  Marine. 
The  field  for  encomium  is  extensive — the  opportuni- 
ties for  bestowing  praise  far  greater  than  could  have 
been  expected,  at  a  moment  when  the  overwhelming 
power  of  the  British  Navy,  appeared  to  render  every 
effort  to  resist  it  chimerical.  The  first  trump  of  war, 
however,  appears  to  have  been  the  signal  for  energy 
and  active  enterprise,  calling  into  exertion,  whatever 
the  ardent  impulses  of  patriotism  could  suggest,  as 
beneficial  to  the  public  weal ;  for,  while  the  enemy 
still  held  their  post  at  Boston,  even  in  the  harbour 
itself,  in  view  of,  and  frequently  under  the  very  guns 
of  the  men  of  war,  achievements  of  bold  and  hardy 
daring  were  accomplished,  that  Britons,  with  all  their 
boast  of  superiority  on  the  ocean,  would  have  been 
proud  to  add  to  the  chronicles  of  their  Naval  ^istory. 
I  shall  select  a  few  instances  in  support  of  my  asser- 
tion, and  could,  with  great  facility,  many  others,  did 
I  not  regard  the  proofs  brought  forward  as  amply 
sufficient.  "^ 

28 


2in  MANLY. 


CAPTAIN  MANLY. 

At  the  mouth  of  the  port  of  Boston,  and  frequently 
m  full  view  of  the  British  fleet,  Captain  Manly  made 
many  prizes.  I  would  particularly  mention  a  store 
ship,  bound  in,  which  had  on  board  a  thirteen-inch 
brass  mortar,  several  pieces  of  brass  cannon,  several 
thousand  small  arms,  and  a  complete  assortment  of 
ordnance  stores  and  laboratory  utensils.  He  took,  at 
the  same  time,  an  armed  sloop,  serving  her  as  a  ten- 
der; and  shortly  after,  another  fine  ship  and  a  snow  of 
considerable  value.  The  spirit  of  enterprise,  encou- 
raged by  success,  he  sailed  in  the  privateer  Hancock, 
on  a  cruise,  and  falling  in  with  His  Britannic  Majesty's 
sloop  of  war  Fox,  compelled  her  to  surrender.  Some 
time  after  this,  commanding  the  privateer  Jason,  he 
was  attacked  by  two  British  privateers,  the  one  of 
eighteen,  the  other  of  ten  guns.  He  reserved  his  fire 
till  he  came  close  upon  them — run  his  vessel  betwixt 
the  two,  and  by  a  well-directed  broadside,  fired  into 
each,  compelled  them  both  to  strike  their  colours  and 
surrender.  The  Americans  had  already  learnt  to  fire 
with  deliberation  and  effect.  Short  as  the  contest  was, 
the  larger  privateer  lost  thirty  of  her  crew. 


CAPTAIN  HARRADEN, 

Of  the  privateer  Pickering,  of  sixteen  guns,  cruising 
near  Sandy-Hook,  fell  in  with  a  ship  of  fourteen  guns, 
a  brig  of  ten,  and  a  sloop  of  eight  guns,  and  after  an 
action  of  one  hou^  and  a  half,  captured  the  whole.     In 


IIARRADEN,  GEDDES  AND  JONES.  219 

the  same  cruise,  he  captured  also,  the  Pomona  oi 
twelve,  the  sloop  of  war  Hope  of  fourteen,  and  Royal 
George  Cutter  of  fourteen  guns. 


CAPTAIN  GEDDES,      \ 

In  the  Holker  privateer,  did  incalculable  mischief  to 
the  British  trade.  But  changing  into  the  Congress 
letter  of  marque,  of  Philadelphia,  mounting  twenty 
guns,  encountered  and  captured  His  Britannic  Ma- 
jesty's sloop  of  war  Savage,  of  the  same  force. 


PAUL  JOiNES, 

Sailing  in  the  Ranger,  with  despatches  to  our 
Minister  at  the  French  Court,  fell  in  with  and  took 
two  valuable  prizes  on  his  passage  ;  and  having  quickly 
prepared  his  vessel  for  a  cruize,  entered  the  Irish 
Channel,  landed  and  spiked  thirty-six  cannon  mounted 
in  battery  at  Whitehaven — encountered,  and  after  a 
severe  action,  took  the  Drake  sloop  of  war — and  after 
an  absence  of  twenty-eiglit  days,  returned  to  Brest 
with  two  hundred  prisoners.  His  activity  giving  great 
increase  to  his  reputation,  he  was  appointed  to  the 
command  of  a  small  squadron,  and  sailed  from  France 
with  the  hope  of  intercepting  the  Baltic  fleet  returning 
to  England.  During  his  cruize  he  made  many  valu- 
able captures,  and  spread  great  alarm  on  the  British 
Coast,  threatening  a  descent,  and  exciting  great  alarm 
both  at  Leith  and  Hull ;  and  at  length,  falling  in  with 
the  fleet  which  he  sought,  fought  an  action  of  such 


220  JONES  AND  BARRY. 

desperate  severity,  that  history  affords  no  parallel  to 
it.  In  the  Bonne  Homme  Richard  of  forty  guns,  he 
compelled  the  Serapis  of  forty-four,  to  strike,  and 
took  possession  of  her  at  the  moment  that  his  own 
ship  sunk  at  her  side,  being  so  shattered  by  the  oljsti- 
nacy  and  long  continuance  of  the  conflict,  that  time 
was  not  allowed  for  the  removal  of  the  wounded,  who 
had  barely  time  to  see  the  flag  of  their  country  floating 
triumphantly  above  that  of  their  enemy,  before  they 
sunk  into  eternity ! 


CAPTAIN  BARRY. 

While  the  British  were  in  possession  of  Philadel- 
phia, Barry,  with  the  boats  of  the  Alliance  frigate, 
which  lay  considerably  higher  up,  passed  the  city  with 
muffled  oars,  and  proceeding  down  the  river,  near 
Port  Penn,  surprised  and  captured  a  British  schooner 
of  ten  guns,  and  four  large  transports,  without  the  loss 
of  a  man. 

In  the  year  1781,  while  on  a  cruize  in  the  Alliance, 
he  took  the  Alert  of  ten  guns,  the  Mars  of  twenty  and 
one  hundred  and  twelve  men,  Minerva  of  ten  guns  and 
fifty-five  men,  and  heroically  closed  his  victories,  by 
capturing  two  men  of  war  sent  out  for  the  express 
purpose  of  destroying  him.  In  the  conflict  he  was 
very  severely  wounded  ;  but  increasing  the  eflbrts  of 
his  men  by  his  animating  example  and  harangues,  the 
Atalanta  of  twenty  guns  and  one  hundred  and  thirty 
men,  and  Trej)assay  of  fourteen  guns  and  eighty  men, 
were  compelled  to  surrender. 


BARNEY.  221 


CAPTAIN  BARNEY. 

I  HAVE  received  from  a  friend  in  Baltimore,  a  sketch 
of  the  life  and  achievements  of  this  meritorious  Offi- 
cer, that  is  highly  worthy  of  attention,  and  replete 
with  occurrences  that  could  not  fail  to  gratify  every 
American  Patriot ;  but,  as  they  chiefly  relate  to  deeds 
of  gallantry  that  have  taken  place  at  a  later  period,  I 
must  content  myself,  at  present,  with  mentioning  the 
action  in  the  revolutionary  war,  that  in  the  greatest 
degree  exalted  his  reputation.  I  would,  however, 
previonsly  mention  to  his  honour,  that  he  was  the  first 
man  who  displayed  the  American  Flag  in  Maryland, 
beating  up  for  volunteers  to  join  the  expedition  under 
Commodore  Hopkins,  intended  against  New-Provi- 
dence, and  with  such  success,  as  to  engage  a  crew  for 
the  Hornet,  the  vessel  to  which  he  was  attached,  in  a 
single  day.  Great,  indeed,  was  the  variety  of  service 
in  which  he  was  engaged,  and  as  fluctuating  his  suc- 
cesses and  his  mifortunes — a  captive  to-day — to-mor- 
row he  triumphed  in  the  arms  of  victory  ;  but,  in  all 
situations,  and  under  every  change,  however  eventful, 
sui)ported  a  character  of  unblemished  honour,  and  of 
an  intrepidity  that  could  not  be  exceeded. 

Early  in  the  spring  of  1782,  the  State  of  Pennsyl- 
vania, fitting  out  some  small  vessels  to  protect  the 
Delaware  Bay  against  the  depredations  of  the  Refugee 
barges,  fitted  out  at  New-York,  appointed  him  to  the 
command  of  a  small  ship,  mounting  sixteen  six  poun- 
ders, and  carrying  one  hundred  and  ten  men,  called 
the  Hyder  Ally.  In  this  vessel,  giving  convoy  to  a  fleet 
proceeding  down  the  Bay,  he  came  to  anchor  near 
Cape  May,  waiting  for  a  wind,  that  the  vessels  under 
his  charge  might  proceed  to  sea,  his  instructions  con- 
fining him  to  the   special  object  of  protecting  them 


222  BARNEY. 

against  the  Refugee  boats.  Two  suspicious  ships  and 
a  brig  making  towards  him,  he  ordered  the  convoy,  by 
signal,  to  proceed  up  the  Bay,  whicli  they  did  so  suc- 
cessfully, that  one  only,  which  unfortunately  grounded, 
fell  into  the  hands  of  the  enemy.  There  are  two 
channels  up  the  Bay.  One  of  the  ships,  and  the  brig, 
followed  closely  in  that  which  he  had  entered  ;  the 
other  ship  (a  frigate)  took  the  second,  with  the  inten- 
tion of  heading  him,  and  cutting  off  every  means  of 
escape.  The  brig  first  approached  him,  fired  her  broad- 
side, and  pressed  forward  in  pursuit  of  the  convoy. 
The  ship  then  advanced  within  pistol  shot;  a  well- 
directed  broadside  from  the  Hyder  Ally,  caused  no 
abatement  in  the  vigour  of  her  attack.  She  closed,  and 
came  very  near  on  board.  The  Hyder  Ally  then 
crossed  her  hawse,  and  got  entangled  in  her  fore- 
rigging,  and  raking  her  by  a  continual  fire  of  great 
guns  and  small  arms,  after  a  severe  contest  of  twenty- 
six  minutes,  brought  down  her  colours.  His  prize 
proved  to  be  the  General  Monk,  mounting  twenty 
gAHis,  nine  pounders,  and  one  hundred  and  thirty-six 
men,  commanded  by  Captain  Rogers.  She  lost  in 
killed  and  wounded  63  men — 20  killed.  Among  the 
latter  were  the  1st  Lieutenant,  Master,  Purser,  Doctor, 
Boatswain  and  Gunner ; — among  the  wounded,  the 
Captain,  and  every  other  officer  (one  midshipman  ex- 
cepted.) The  Hyder  Ally  had  four  men  killed  and 
eleven  wounded.  The  Legislature  of  Pennsylvania, 
in  testimony  of  their  admiration  of  his  gallantry,  pre- 
sented him  with  a  gold  hiked  sword,  by  the  hands  of 
the  Governor  of  the  State.  The  prize  was  purchased 
by  the  General  Government,  and  Barney  had  the  hap- 
piness to  be  informed  by  his  friend,  Robert  Morris, 
that  having  added  her  to  the  navy  of  the  United  States, 
he  was  unanimously  appointed  to  command  her. 

I   will  mention  particularly  but  one  other  naval 
combat. 


BIDDLE.  223 


CAPTAIN  BIDDLE, 

In  the  Randolph,  in  one  cruise  from  Charleston, 
took  the  True  Briton,  of  twenty  guns,  and  three  other 
Jamaica  men.  But  sailing  a  second  time  from  that 
port,  with  a  detachment  of  fifty  men  of  the  1st  South- 
Carolina  Continental  Regiment,  who  served  as  ma- 
rines, fell  in  with,  and  in  the  darkness  of  night,  en- 
gaged the  Yarmouth,  a  two  decker  of  64  guns.  The 
contest  was  short ;  the  Randolph  blew  up,  and  of  her 
crew,  ol5  persons,  four  only,  who  were  taken  up  some 
days  after  on  a  piece  of  the  wreck,  escaped.  Carolina 
lost  several  of  her  gallant  sons,  and  particularly 
lamented  Captain  Joor,  and  the  Lieutenants  Gray 
and  Simmons. 

The  gallant  Truxton,  Dale,  Decatur,  (father  of  our 
late  lamented  Commodore,)  Young,  Robeson,  Roberts, 
Keene,  Hall,  Foster,  Williams,  Hallet,  Numan,  Weeks, 
Waters,  O'Brian,  and  Murray,  performed  services  of 
the  highest  importance  to  their  country,  and  gave 
examples  of  heroism  that  have  not,  and  I  tj-ust  never 
will  be  lost  by  their  influences,  to  exalt  the  naval  cha- 
racter of  their  country. 


CONDUCT  OF  THE  WHIG  LADIES. 


Having  thus  far  progressed  in  my  Anecdotes,  I  come  to  the  dehghtful 
duty,  though  last  not  least  attractive,  of  exhibiting  instances  of  that 
maonanimity  and  intrepid  firmness,  that  so  pre-eminently  distin- 
guished the  fair  daughters  of  Carolina.  But  here  the  hope  of 
successful  effort  forsakes  me  ;  for,  as  often  as  I  take  up  my  pen  to 
pay  the  tribute  of  applause  so  justly  due  to  their  merits,  and  strive, 
with  becoming  gratitude  to  record  them,  I  fail  in  the  attempt,  and 
find  myself  deprived  of  every  ability  but  that  of  admiring  them. 

It  is  no  idle  complimpnt  to  assert,  that  to  the  pRtriot- 
ism  of  the  ladies  of  South-Carolina,  is  in  a  great  degree 
to  be  attributed  the  freedom  of  their  country.     The 
invasion   of  the  enemy  in   1780  had  extended  their 
authority  over  the  whole  State.  Charleston  had  fallen. 
The  entire  Continental  force,  and  the  greater  part  of  • 
the  North  Carolina  and  Virginia  line  were  prisoners. 
The   disastrous  surprises  at  Monk's  Corner  and  La~ 
neau's,  and  total  defeat  of  Colonel  Buford,  had  dis- 
sipated every  prospect  of  effectual  resistance.     Some 
'  dauntless  spirits,  indeed,  rose  superior  to  calamity,  but 
it  must  be  acknowledged,  that  wearied  out  by  hopeless 
warfare,  and  by  accumulated  misfortunes,  the  voice  of 
the  majority  led  to  temporary  submission.  The  enemy 
triumphing  in  success,  and  confident  that  opposition 
was  at  an  end,  no  longer  held  out  the  lure  of  concilia- 
tion.    Insult  and  arrogance  became  the  order  of  the 
day,  and  adversity  was  aggravated  by  every  variety  of 
insolence  that  malice  could  invent,  and  tyranny  inflict. 


CONDUCT  OF  THE  WHIG  LADIES.  225 

No  spirit  of  moderation  restrained  the  passions  excited 
by  what  may  be  esteemed  domestic  conflicts,  nor 
abated  the  virulence  betwixt  contending  powers,  which 
is  the  natural  result  of  war.  The  most  distinguished 
patriots  whose  age  and  superior  wisdom,  were  sup- 
posed to  influence  public  sentiments,  were  arrested 
on  frivolous  pretexts,  and  sent  into  exile.  The  young 
and  active,  impatiently  waiting  the  hour  of  exchange, 
to  resume  their  stations  under  the  banners  of  their 
country,  were  crowded  into  prison-ships,  as  fit  subjects 
of  retaliation,  should  General  Greene  adhere  to  his 
purpose  of  avenging  the  murder  of  Colonel  Hayne,  by 
the  execution  of  a  British  officer  of  equal  rank.  To 
aggravate  misfortune,  two  irregular  courts,  founded  in 
the  spirit  of  military  depotism,  were  established  ;  the 
Boards  of  Police  and  Sequestration,  by  these  new 
energies  were  given  to  injustice  and  persecution,  and 
their  decisions  prove,  that  tyranny  never  invented  in- 
struments better  calculated  to  destroy  the  peace  of 
society.* 

*  In  the  causes  brought  before  the  Board  of  Police,  not  the  Lawyers  only, 
but  the  Judges  also  took  fees.  On  one  occasion,  a  suitor,  whose  case  was 
pending,  expressing  his  fears  to  a  friend,  that  the  decree,  in  defiance  of  every 
principle  of  justice,  would  be  against  him — "  Why  do  you  not  fee  Sir  Ecer- 
TON  ?"  was  the  reply.  "  Because,"  rejoined  the  suitor,  "  I  know  that  my  oppo- 
nent has  already  given  hira  ten  guineas."  "  Quick,  then,  to  his  house,"  said 
the  friend,  "present  a  fee  of  twenty  guineas,  and  rest  assured,  that  your  suc- 
cess will  be  complete.  My  opinion  rests  on  my  experience  of  his  civility." 
The  character  of  SirE.  Leigh,  is  so  well  known  in  Carolina,  that  it  is  suffi- 
cient to  establish  the  infamy  of  a  Court,  to  say  that  he  presided  at  it.  Thomas 
Phepoe,  pre-eminent  in  iniquity,  and  his  active  agent,  declared  in  Court — 
*'  That  he  had  appeared  to  take  part  with  America,  by  the  advice  of  his  friend, 
Chief  Justice  Gordon,  the  more  effectually  to  bewilder  the  councils  of  the 
Legislature,  of  wliich  he  was  a  member,  and  to  gain  intelligence  of  the  de- 
signs of  Government,  the  more  effectually  to  betray  them."  I  would  not  be 
supposed  to  implicate  Lieutenant  Governor  Bull,  Colonel  Innis,  Mr.  James 
Simpson,  and  other  members  in  the  iniquitous  decrees  of  these  men.  The  two 
last  had  left  the  Bench  before  Sir  Egerton  Leigh  presided  at  it.  The  first 
did  not  act  as  a  Judge  till  after  his  death. 

29 


226^  MRS.  MOTTE. 

Under  such  accumulated  evils,  that  manly  spirit 
which  alone  could  secure  success,  might  have  sunk,  but 
for  the  cheering  smiles  and  intrepid  firmness  of  the 
fair  sex,  who  by  sharing  the  calamities  of  their  suffer- 
ing countrymen,  taught  how  to  oppose  and  subdue 
them.  Intent  by  precept  and  example  to  frustrate  the 
machinations  of  the  enemy,  whatsoever  the  shape 
which  they  assumed,  defiance  was  bid  to  their  threats, 
and  the  invitations  to  engage  in  scenes  of  gaiety  and 
dissipation,  indignantly  rejected.  The  dungeons  of  the 
Provost,  the  crowded  holds  of  the  prison-ships,  were 
anxiously  sought,  and  every  delicate  attention  bestow- 
ed on  the  victims  who  inhabited  them,  that  sympathy 
could  suggest;  every  consolation  that  could  mitigate 
suffering,  and  encourage  hope ;  every  persuasion  that 
could  animate  to  virtuous  perseverance,  and  secure 
unyielding  fidelity  to  the  glorious  cause  of  Liberty. 

The  instances  of  magnanimity  that  occur  to  memory 
are  innumerable;  but,  a  (ew  only  can  be  mentioned, 
and  my  greatest  difficulty  is,  to  select  examples,  where 
the  whole  have  such  exalted  claims  to  admiration. 


MRS.  JACOB  MOTTE. 

The  patriotic  enthusiasm  of  Mrs.  Jacob  Motte,  de- 
mauds  particular  notice.  When  compelled  by  painful 
duty.  Lieutenant  Colonel  Lee  informed  her,  "  that  in 
order  to  accomplish  the  immediate  surrender  of  the 
British  garrison  occupying  her  elegant  mansion,  its 
destruction  was  indispensable,"  she  instantly  replied, 
"  the  sacrifice  of  my  property  is  nothing,  and  I  shall 
view  its  destruction  with  delight,  if  it  shall  in  any 
degree  contribute  to  the  good  of  my  country."     In 


MRS.  HEYWARD.  227 

proof  of  her  sincerity  she  immediately  presented  the 
arrows  by  which  combustible  matter  was  to  be  con- 
veyed to  the  building. 


MRS.  THOMAS  HEYWARD. 

Nor  is  the  firmness  of  Mrs.  Thomas  Heyward  less 
worthy  of  admiration.  An  order  having  been  issued 
for  a  general  illumination,  to  celebrate  the  supposed 
victory  at  Guilford,  the  front  of  the  house  occupied  by 
Mrs.  Heyward  and  her  sister,  Mrs.  George  Abbot  Hall, 
remained  in  darkness.  Indignant  at  so  decided  a 
mark  of  disrespect,  an  officer  (I  hope  for  the  sake  of 
humanity,  and  the  honour  of  the  military  character, 
unauthorized)  forced  his  way  into  her  presence,  and 
sternly  demanded  of  Mrs.  Heyward,  "  how  dare  you 
disobey  the  order  which  has  been  issued ;  why,  Madam, 
is  not  your  house  illuminated  ?"  "  Is  it  possible  for 
me,  Sir,"  replied  the  lady,  with  perfect  calmness,  "  to 
feel  a  spark  of  joy  ?  Can  I  celebrate  the  victory  of 
your  army,  while  my  husband  remains  a  prisoner  at  St. 
Augustine."  "  That,"  rejoined  the  officer,  "  is  a  mat- 
ter of  little  consequence ;  the  last  hopes  of  rebellion 
are  crushed  by  the  defeat  of  Greene  ;  You  shall  illu- 
minate." "  Not  a  single  light,"  replied  the  lady, 
*'  shall  be  placed  with  my  consent,  on  such  an  occa- 
sion, in  any  window  in  the  house."  "  Then,  Madam, 
I  will  return  with  a  party,  and  before  midnight  level 
it  to  the  ground."  "  You  have  power  to  destroy,  Sir, 
and  seem  well  disposed  to  use  it,  but  over  my  opinions 
you  possess  no  control.  I  disregard  your  menaces,  and 
resolutely  declare,  /  will  not  illuminate:^  Would  to 
God  that  I  could  name  the  man,  capable  of  thus  in- 
sulting a  helpless  female,  that  I  might  hold  him  up  to 


228  MRS.  HEYWARD. 

the  scorn  of  the  world  !  Mrs.  Heyward  was  graceful 
and  majestic  in  person,  beautiful  in  countenance,  an- 
gelic in  dispostion.  None  but  a  ruffian  could  have 
treated  her  with  indignity.  On  the  anniversay  of  the 
surrender  of  Charleston,  May  12th,  1781,  an  illumina- 
tion was  again  demanded,  in  testimony  of  joy  for  an 
event  so  propitious  to  the  cause  of  Britain.  Mrs.  G. 
A.  Hall,  who  laboured  under  a  wasting  disease,  lay  at 
the  point  of  death.  Again  Mrs.  Heyward  refused  to 
obey.  Violent  anger  was  excited,  and  the  house  was 
assailed  by  a  mob  with  brickbats,  and  every  species  of 
nauseating  trash  that  could  offend  or  annoy.  Her  reso- 
lution remained  unshaken,  and  while  the  tumult  con- 
tinued, and  shouts  and  clamour  increased  indignity, 
Mrs.  Hall  expired.* 


MRS.  REBECCA  EDWARDS. 

The  Orator  of  the  Society  of  the  Cincinnati  of 
South-Carolina,  at  the  celebration  of  the  National 
Festival  on  the  4th  of  July,  1797,  thus  extols  the 
magnanimity  of  Mrs.  Rebecca  Edwards  : — "  The 
Spartan  mother  delivering  his  shield  to  her  son  depart- 
ing for  the  army,  nobly  bade  him,  *  Return  with  it  or 
upon  it.'  The  sentiment  was  highly  patriotic,  but 
surely  not  superior  to  that  which  animated  the  bosom 
of   a  distinguished  female  of  our  own  State,  who, 

*  I  woul(J  mention  to  the  honour  of  the  Town-Major  Fraser,  that  he  waited 
on  Mrs.  Heyward,  and  strongly  expressing  his  regret  for  the  indignities  that 
had  been  oifered  her,  requested  permission  to  repair  the  damage  done  to  the 
house,  but  she  resolutely  refused,  assuring  him,  that  though  sensible  of  his 
attention,  and  thankful  for  it,  the  efforts  of  the  ruling  authorities  to  obliterate 
the  recollection  of  insults,  which  they  ought  to  have  prevented,  could  not 
avail.     She  could  forgive,  but  never  forget  them. 


MRS.  EDWARDS.  229 

when  the  British  Officer  presented  the  mandate  which 
arrested  her  sons  as  objects  of  retaliation,  less  sensible 
of  private  affliction,  then  attached  to  their  honour, 
and  the  interests  of  her  country,  stifled  the  tender  feel- 
ings of  the  mother,  and  heroically  bade  them  despise 
the  threats  of  their  enemies,  and  stedfastly  persist  to 
support  the  glorious  cause  in  which  they  had  engaged. 
That  if  the  threatened  sacrifice  should  follow,  they 
would  carry  a  parent's  blessing,  and  the  good  opinion 
of  every  virtuous  citizen  along  with  them  to  the  grave. 
But,  if  from  the  frailty  of  human  nature,  (of  the  possi- 
bility of  which  she  would  not  suffer  an  idea  to  enter 
her  bosom)  they  were  disposed  to  temporize,  and  ex- 
change their  liberty  for  safety,  they  must  forget  her  as 
a  mother,  nor  subject  her  to  the  misery  of  ever  behold- 
ing them  again." 


MISS  MARY  ANNA  GIBBES, 

During  the  invasion  of  Provost,  while  the  British 
army  kept  possession  of  the  sea-board,  a  Hessian  bat- 
talion occupied  the  house  and  plantation  of  Mr. 
Robert  Gibbes,  on  the  banks  of  the  Stono.  To  excite 
general  alarm,  and  more  particularly  to  annoy  the  post, 
two  gallies  from  Charleston,  ascending  the  river  in 
the  night  time,  unexpectedly  opened  a  heavy  fire  of 
grape  and  round  shot  on  the  house  and  neighbouring 
encanipment.  The  family,  who  had  been  allowed  to 
remain  in  some  of  the  upper  apartments,  were  now 
ordered  to  quit  the  premises,  and  Mr.  Gibbes,  a  mar- 
tyr to  infirmity,  and  his  numerous  family,  set  out  at 
midnight  for  an  adjoining  plantation.  When  beyond 
the  reach  of  the  shot,  which  had  incessantly  passed 


230  MISS  GIBBES. 

over  the  heads  of  the  party,  an  inquiry  being  made 
respecting  the  safety  of  the  children,  it  was  found, 
that  in  the  hurry  and  terror  of  the  moment,  a  distant 
relation,  a  boy  as  yet  in  early  infancy,  had  been  left 
behind.  The  servants  were  entreated  to  return  for 
him,  but  refused  ;  and  he  must  have  been  left  to  his 
fate,  had  not  the  heroism  and  affection  of  Miss  Mary 
Anna  Gibbes,  then  but  thirteen  years  old,  inspired  her 
with  courage  to  fly  to  his  rescue.  The  darkness  of 
the  night  was  profound,  yet  she  returned  alone,  the 
distance  being  fully  a  mile  ;  and  after  a  long  refusal, 
having  by  tears  and  entreaties,  obtained  admission 
from  the  centinel,  ascended  to  the  third  story.  There 
she  found  the  child,  and  carried  him  off  in  safety, 
though  frequently  covered  with  the  dirt  thrown  up  by 
the  shot,  and  greatly  terrified  by  their  constant  ap- 
proach to  her  person.  Public  gratitude  is  due  to  this 
intrepid  action,  since  the  gallant  Lieutenant  Colonel 
Fenwick,  so  much  distinguished  by  his  services  in  the 
late  war,  was  the  person  saved. 


MRS.  BREWTON. 

The  Anecdote  which  I  am  now  to  relate,  shows 
from  what  trivial  circumstances  persecution  often  arose. 
Mrs.  Brewion,  (since  Foster)  one  of  the  most  amiable 
and  enlightened  of  the  whig  ladies,  was  an  inmate  of 
Mrs.  Motte's  family,  at  the  time  of  the  destruction  of 
her  house.  Meeting  with  her  shortly  after  the  signing 
of  the  preliminary  articles  of  peace  at  Philadelphia, 
I  inquired — "  How  it  had  happened,  that  she,  a  help- 
less, unprotected  widow,  without  any  charge  of  im- 
l)roper  conduct,  has  so  far  incurred  the  enmity  of  the 
British  Commanders,  as  to  have  been  arrested  without 


MRS.  BREWTON.  231 

ceremony,  and  hurried  unprepared,  into  exile."     She 
answered — "  That  she  knew  no  act  of  her's  which 
had  merited  such  ungentlemanly  and  inhuman  treat- 
ment."    Entering,  however,  into  conversation  relative 
to  the  siege  and  surrender  of  Fort  Motte,  she  gave  at 
once  a  clue  to  the  transaction.     While  the  American 
forces  were  at  a  distance,  Major  M'Pherson,  the  com- 
mander   of   the   post,   suffered  Mrs.  Motte   and  her 
family  to  remain,  and  an  appartment  was  allowed  for 
their  accommodation.     But  when  the  post  at  Thomp- 
son's, but  a  little  removed  from  him,  was  attacked  and 
carried,  anticipating  the  fate  which  awaited  him,  imme- 
diate removal   was  not  only   advised,  but  insisted  on. 
At  the  moment  of  departure  Mrs.  Brewton  seeing  a 
quiver  of  arrows,  which  had  been  presented  to  Mr. 
Motte  by  a  favourite  African,  said   to  her  friend,   "  I 
will  take  these  with  me,  to  prevent  their  destruction 
by  the  soldiers."     With  the  quiver  in  her  hands,  she 
was  passing  the  gate,  when  Major  M'Pherson,  drawing 
forth  a  shaft,  and  applying  the  point  to  his  finger,  said, 
"  what  have  you  here,  Mrs.  Brewton."     "  For  God's 
sake,  Major,  be  careful,"  she  replied,  "  these  arrows 
are  poisoned."     The  ladies  immediately  passed  on  to 
the  out-house,  which  they  were  now  to  inhabit.     In 
the  siege  which  directly  followed,  when  the  destruc- 
tion of  the  house  was  determined  upon,  and  missiles 
eagerly  sought  for  by  Lieutenant  Colonel   Lee,  for 
conveying  the  fire  to  the  shingles,  these  arrows  being 
remembered,  were  presented  by  Mrs.  Motte,  with  a 
wish  for  the  happy  accomplishment  of  the  end  pro- 
posed.    It  was  afterwards  known,  that  the  first  arrow 
missed  its  aim,  and  fell  at  the  feet  of  the  Commandant, 
who  taking  it  up,  with  strong  expressions  of  anger, 
exclaimed,  "  I  thank  you,  Mrs.  Brewton."  The  second 
arrow  took  effect,  and  set  fire  to  the  roof,  when  the 
brisk  discharge  of  a  six  pounder  being  maintained  by 
Captain  Finley,  in  the  direction  of  the  stair-case,  everj 


232  MRS.  BREWTON. 

effort  to  extinguish  it  proved  fruitless,  until,  from  the 
apprehension  of  the  roof  falling  in,  the  garrison  were 
compelled  to  surrender  at  discretion.    General  Greene 
arriving  soon   after,   paid  to   Major   M'Pherson   the 
tribute  of  applause  due  to  his  excv^llent  defence,  de- 
claring, "  that  such  gallantry  could  not  fail  to  procure 
for  him  a  high  increase  of  reputation."     This  compli- 
ment, however,  does  not  appear  to  have  soothed  the 
mortified  soldier,  for,  walking  immediately  up  to  Mrs. 
Brewton,  he  said,   "  to  you,  Madam,  I  owe  this  dis- 
grace ;   it  would   have  been  more  charitable  to  have 
allowed  me  to  perish  by  poison,  than  to  be  thus  com- 
pelled  to  surrender  my  post  to  the  enemy."     This 
speech  alone,   accounts  for  the  enmity  against  Mrs. 
Brewton ;  but  by  the  playfulness  of  a  lively  disposition 
she  had  offended  another  individual,  whose  clamours 
could  only  be   appeased  by  severe   retribution.     An 
Ensign  named  Amiel,  a  Philadelphian  by  birth,  who 
had  joined  the  British,  made  it  his  chief  occupation  to 
provoke  the  ladies  of  the  family  by  taunts  and  invec- 
tives against  their  countrymen.     He  particularly  de- 
lighted to  bid  them  admire  his  prowess,  while  cutting 
ofifthe  heads  of  pine  saplings,  which,  according  to  the 
whim  of  the  moment,  he  denominated  Greene,  Marion, 
Sumter,  ^c.  ^'C.     After  the  surrender  of  the  post,  Mrs. 
Brewton  contriving  to  join  this  youth,  near  the  scene 
of  his  former  bravadoes,  sportively  requested  that  he 
would  again  treat  her  with  an  exhibition  of  his  talent 
in  smiting  the  foe.  "  But  valiant  Captain,"  she  added, 
"  where  is  your  sword  ?    Such  a  hero  as  you  would 
only  have  yielded  it  in  death !    And  where  are  your 
resentments  ?  Did  I  not  see  you  but  a  little  time  since, 
bowing  to  earth  before  the  very  man  you  have  so  often, 
in  idea,  sliortened  by  the  head.     Is  Marion  no  more  to 
feel  the  power  of  your  arm,  nor  Sumter  be  compelled 
to  bite  the  dust  ?     Smother  your  anger,  most  ferocious 
Sir,  and   let  the  generosity  which  you  have  expe- 


MRS.  BREWTON.  233 

iienced,  make  you  more  merciful  hereafter."  Doubt- 
less the  irony  of  this  speech  was  treasured  up  in  his 
memory,  and  was  one  cause  of  the  severity  exercised 
towards  this  lady.  Shortly  after  this  Major  Hyrne, 
appointed  a  Commissioner  to  negotiate  an  exchange  of 
prisoners,  being  on  his  way  to  Charleston,  Mrs.  Brew- 
ton,  anxious  to  see  her  friends  in  the  garrison,  obtained 
permission  to  accompany  him.  On  entering  the  town 
she  was  met  by  an  officer,  who  anxiously  inquiring, 
"  what  was  the  news  in  the  country,"  she  replied, 
"  that  all  nature  smiled,  for  every  thing  was  Greene 
down  to  Monk's  Corner."  Her  hon  mot  was  not 
unnoticed ;  an  order  for  her  immediate  departure  was 
issued,  and,  escorted  at  a  late  hour  beyond  the  gates, 
she  was  directed  to  return  no  more.  On  the  following 
day,  however,  from  caprice,  or  probably  to  confine 
her  influence  to  more  narrow  bounds,  she  was  recalled, 
and  for  a  time  was  left  without  molestation.  Ic  was 
her  lot,  however,  perpetually  to  encounter  difficulties. 
An  officer  departing  for  the  interior  calling  on  her, 
politely  offi^red  to  take  charge  of  her  commands  to  her 
friends.  "  I  should  like  to  write,"  replied  Mrs.  Brew- 
ton,  "  but  have  no  idea  of  having  my  letters  read  at  the 
head  of  Marion's  Brigade."  The  officer  departed,  but 
within  a  ie\Y  days  repeated  his  visit,  to  thank  her,  -he 
asserted,  for  the  rapidity  with  which  she  had  com- 
municated the  intelligence  of  his  movements,  as  he 
had  actually  been  taken  by  Marion,  and  returned  to 
town  on  parole.  Nor  is  it  improbable,  that  an  incident 
still  more  trivial,  might  have  contributed  to  her  exile. 
The  liveliness  of  Mrs.  Brewton  was  very  fascinating, 
and  the  more  liberal  and  enlightened  among  the  Bri- 
tish, who  met  with  very  little  of  wit  or  intellect,  anx- 
iously sought  her  society.  Walking  in  Broad-street, 
in  deep  mourning,  according  to  the  fashion  of  the 
Whig  ladies,  an  English  officer  joined  her  at  the  mo- 
moment  that  a  crape  flounce  was  accidentally  torn 

30 


234  MRS.  BREWTON. 

from  her  dress.  She  picked  it  up,  and  passing  the 
house  of  John  Rutledge,  the  absent  Governor,  then 
occupied  by  Colonel  Moncrief,  she  exclaimed,  "  where 
are  you,  dearest  Governor ;  surely  the  magnanimous 
Britons  will  not  deem  it  a  crime,  if  I  cause  your  house 
as  well  as  your  friends,  to  mourn  your  absence."  Say- 
ing this,  she  tied  the  crape  to  the  front  railing,  and 
departed.  Whether  her  companion  mentioned  the 
circumstance,  or  that  her  conduct  was  observed  by 
persons  within,  (which  is  more  probable,)  it  is  certain 
that,  in  a  few  hours  after,  she  was  arrested  and  sent 
off  to  Philadelphia. 


MRS.  CHANNING. 

Shortly  after  the  commencement  of  the  war,  the 
family  of  Dr.  Channing,  then  residing  in  England, 
removed  to  France,  and  sailed  in  a  stout  and  well- 
armed  vessel  for  America.  They  had  proceeded  but 
a  little  way,  when  they  were  attacked  by  a  privateer. 
A  fierce  engagement  ensued,  during  which  Mrs.  Chan- 
ning kept  the  deck,  handing  cartridges,  aiding  the 
wounded,  and  exhorting  the  crew  to  resist  until  death. 
Their  fortitude,  however,  did  not  correspond  with  the 
ardour  of  her  wishes,  and  the  colours  were  struck. 
Seizing  the  pistols  and  side  arms  of  her  husband,  she 
threw  them  into  the  sea,  declaring  that  she  would 
rather  die,  than  see  him  surrender  them  to  the  enemy. 


MRS.  ELLIOTT.  235 


MRS.  CHARLES  ELLIOTT. 

With  peculiar  gratification  I  will  now  speak  of  a 
lady  in  the  highest  degree  entitled  to  admiration.  A 
Patriot  by  inheritance,  being  the  daughter  of  Mr.  Tho- 
mas Ferguson,  one  of  the  most  intrepid  and  strenuous 
promoters  of  the  Revolution,  Mrs.  Charles  Elliott 
appeared  to  consecrate  every  thought,  and  every  hour 
of  existence,  to  the  interests  of  America.  Undaunted 
amidst  the  storms  that  desolated  her  country,  her 
energies  increased  with  the  pressure  of  calamity.  Her 
benevolence  to  the  distressed,  her  persuasive  eloquence, 
skilfully  employed  to  inspire  the  timid  with  confidence, 
and  to  strengthen  the  resolves  of  the  firm,  were  never 
more  conspicuous,  than  when  success  was  most  des- 
paired of.  Beneath  her  roof  the  sick  and  wounded 
not  only  found  shelter,  but  the  tenderest  attentions — 
the  poor  shared  her  purse — the  persecuted  the  conso- 
lations of  her  sympathy.  She  daily  visited  her  captive 
friends ;  and  by  her  cheering  smiles  and  animating 
conversation,  revived  and  sustained  hope,,  inspiring  a 
confidence  of  success  equal  to  their  most  ardent  de- 
sires. While  such  her  conduct  towards  her  friends, 
her  influence  over  many  of  the  superior  Officers  in  the 
British  army,  was  astonishing,  Harsh  and  unbending 
to  others,  there  was  a  charm  attached  to  Mrs.  Elliott, 
that  rendered  them  the  slaves  of  her  will.  Her  fasci- 
nations forbid  denial.  Possessed  of  natural  ease  of 
manners,  great  cheerfulness  in  conversation,  and  a  cap- 
tivating sportiveness  of  disposition,  asperities  were  so 
much  softened,  that  when  compelled  to  solicit  favours, 
she  seldom  applied  in  vain.  The  advantage  to  our 
army  arising  from  her  influence,  was  both  salutary  and 
extensive;  and  the  supplies  drawn  from  the  British, 
Garrison  in  consequence  of  it,  of  the  highest  impor- 


236  MRS.  ELLIOTT.  * 

tance.  I  do  not  know  an  Officer  who  did  not  owe 
to  her  some  essential  increase  of  comfort,  and  very 
frequently  gratuitously  bestowed.  She  was  a  just 
representative  of  generosity  personified.  I  have  said 
that  her  requests  were  rarely  denied.  In  one  in- 
stance, however,  her  application,  though  for  mercy, 
was  unavailing.  The  impressive  petition,  in  behalf 
of  the  unfortunate  Colonel  Hayne,  presented  by  the 
ladies  of  Charleston,  and  attributed  to  her  pen,  was 
rejected.  It  merited  a  different  fate  ;  but,  when  we 
recollect  that  it  was  addressed  to  Lord  Rawdorit 
astonishment  ceases. 

When  the  steady  Patriot,  Mr.  Thomas  Ferguson, 
was  first  arrested  and  put  on  board  a  transport,  to  be 
sent  into  exile,  his  daughter,  Mrs.  Charles  Elliott,  was 
in  the  country,  but  on  receiving  the  intelligence,  imme- 
diately repaired  to  Charleston.  Her  earnest  solici- 
tation to  bid  her  parent  a  tender  adieu,  being  favou- 
rably attended  to,  she  hastened  on  board  the  vessel  in 
which  he  was  confined,  but  had  scarcely  entered  the 
cabin,  when  oppressed  both  with  grief  and  sickness, 
she  fainted  and  fell.  The  Captain,  much  alarmed, 
recommended  a  thousand  remedies  in  rapid  succession. 
When  saying  in  conclusion,  "  I  have  a  box  of  exquisite 
French  liqueur — a  cordial  would  certainly  revive  her," 
she  started  from  her  couch  and  exclaimed,  "  Who 
speaks  of  the  French — God  bless  the  nation  !"  and 
turning  to  her  father,  with  much  feeling  continued — 
"  Oh,  my  father,  sink  not  under  this  cruel  stroke  of 
fate — let  not  oppression  shake  your  fortitude,  nor  the 
delusive  hope  of  gentler  treatment  cause  you,  for  an 
instant,  to  swerve  from  your  duty.  The  valour  of 
your  countrymen,  aided  by  the  friendly  assistance  of 
France,  will  speedily  dissipate  the  gloom  of  our  imme- 
diate prospects — we  shall  experience  more  propitious 
times — again  meet,  and  be  happy  !" 


MRS.  ELLIOTT.  237 

There  was    in    the  Legion  of  Pulaski,   a   young 
French  Officer  of  singularly  fine  form  and  appearance, 
named   Celeron,  as  he  passed  the  dwelling  of  Mrs. 
Elliott,  a  British  Major,  whose  name  is  lost,  signifi- 
cantly pointing  him  out,  said — "  See,  Mrs.  Elliott,  one 
of  your  illustrious  allies — what  a  i)ity  it  is,  that  the 
hero  has  lost  his  sword^     "  Had  two  thousand  such 
men,"  replied   the  lady,  "  been  present  to  aid  in  the 
defence  of  our  city,  think  you,  Sir,  that  I  should  ever 
have  been  subjected  to  the  malignity  of  your  observa- 
tion."    At  the  moment,  a  Negro,   trigged  out  in  full 
British  uniform,   happened    to  pass — "  See,  Major," 
continued  she,  *'  one  of  ijour  allies — bow  with   gra- 
titude for  the  service  received   from  such  honourable 
associates — caress  and  cherish  them — the  fraternity  is 
excellent,  and  will  teach  us,  more  steadily  to  contend 
against  the  results." 

In  the  indulgence  of  wanton  asperities  towards  the 
patriotic  Fair,  the  aggressors  were  not  unfrequently 
answered  with  a  keenness  of  repartee  that  left  them 
little  cause  for  triumph. 

The  haughty  Tarleton,  vaunting  his  feats  of  gallan- 
try to  the  great  disparagement  of  the  Officers  of  the 
Continental  Cavalry,  said  to  a  lady  at  Wilmington,  "  I 
have  a  very  earnest  desire  to  see  your  far-famed  hero, 
Colonel  Washington,"  "  Your  wish.  Colonel,  might 
have  been  fully  gratified,"  she  promptly  replied,  "  had 
you  ventured  to  look  behind  you  after  the  battle  of  the 
Cowpens."  It  was  in  this  battle,  that  Washington 
had  wounded  Tarleton  in  the  hand,  which  gave  rise  to 
a  still  more  pointed  retort.  Conversing  with  Mrs. 
PViley  Jones,  Colonel  Tarleton  observed — "  You  ap- 
pear to  think  very  highly  of  Colonel  Washington  ;  and 
yet  I  have  been  told,  that  he  is  so  ignorant  a  fellow, 
that  he  can  hardly  ivrite  his  own  name."  "  It  may 
be  the  case,"  she  readily  replied,  "  but  no  man  better 
than  yourself,  Colonel,  can  testify,  that  he  knows  how 
to  make  his  mark.^^ 


238       ^IRS.  HALL,  ELLIOTT  AND  PINCKNEY. 


MRS.  DANIEL  HALL, 

Having  obtained  permission  to  pay  a  visit  to  her 
mother  on  John's  Island,  was  on  the  point  of  embark- 
ing, when  an  officer  stepping  forward,  in  the  most 
authoritative  manner  demanded  the  key  of  her  trunk, 
"  What  do  you  expect  to  find  there  ?"  said  the  lady. 
"  I  seek  for  treason,''''  was  the  reply.  "  You  may 
save  yourself  the  trouble  of  search,  then,"  said  Mrs. 
Hall — "  You  may  find  a  plenty  of  it  at  my  tongue's 
end.'''' 


MRS-  CHARLES  ELLIOTT. 

An  officer,  distinguished  by  his  inhumanity  and  con- 
stant oppression  of  the  unfortunate,  meeting  Mrs. 
Charles  Elliott  in  a  garden  adorned  with  a  great 
variety  of  flowers,  asked  the  name  of  the  Camomile, 
which  appeared  to  flourish  with  peculiar  luxuriance. 
"  The  Rebel  Flower,''''  she  replied.  "  Why  was  that 
name  given  to  it  ?"  said  the  officer.  "  Because,"  re- 
joined the  lady,  "  it  thrives  most  when  most  trampled 
upon.''''  . 


MRS.  CHARLES  PIiNCKNEY. 

To  Mrs.  Pinckney,  the  wife  of  Colonel  Charles 
Pinckney,  a  British  officer  of  rank  once  said — "  It  is 
impossible  not  to  admire  the  intrepid  firmness  of  the 
ladies  of  your  country.  Had  your  men  but  half  their 
resolution,  we  might  give  up  the  contest.  America 
would  be  invincible." 


MRS.  ELLIOTT  AND  MRS.  HOLMES.  239 


MRS.  SABINA  ELLIOTT. 

So  much  were  the  ladies  attached  to  the  whig  inte^ 
rest,  habituated  to  injuries,  and  so  resohite  in  support- 
ing them,  that  they  would  jocosely  speak  of  misfor- 
tunes, though  at  the  moment  severely  suffering  under 
their  pressure.  Mrs.  Sabina  Elliott  having  wit- 
nessed the  activity  of  an  officer,  who  had  ordered  the 
plundering  of  her  poultry  houses,  finding  an  old  mus- 
covy  drake,  which  had  escaped  the  general  search, 
still  straying  about  the  premises,  had  him  caught,  and 
mounting  a  servant  on  horseback,  ordered  him  to 
follow  and  deliver  the  bird  to  the  officer,  with  her 
compliments,  as  she  concluded,  that  in  the  hurry  of 
departure,  it  had  been  left  altogether  by  accident. 


MRS.  ISAAC  HOLMES, 

Among  the  patriots  selected  for  transportation  to  St. 
Augustine,  was  Mr.  Isaac  Holmes.  The  imperious 
call  on  him  at  early  dawn,  to  quit  his  chamber,  and 
deliver  himself  up  to  the  guard  who  waited  to  carry 
carry  him  off,  caused  him  to  descend  the  stairs  when 
but  partially  dressed.  His  gentle  wife,  appalled  by  no 
fears,  exhibiting  no  symptoms  of  despondency,  had 
followed  him  in  silence.  The  mandate  being  given 
for  departure,  she  handed  him  his  coat,  and  with  un- 
daunted resolution  said,  "  take  it,  my  husband,  and 
submit.  Waver  not  in  your  principles,  but  be  true  to 
your  country.  Have  no  fears  for  your  family;  God  is 
good,  and  will  provide  for  them." 


240  MRS,  SHUBRICK. 


MRS.  RICHARD  SHUBRICK. 

Here  was,  indeed,  a  heroine  to  be  proud  of.  Her 
tyes  sparkled  with  feeling  and  vivacity,  while  her 
countenance  so  plainly  bespoke  her  kindness  and 
benevolence,  that  sorrow  and  ntiisfortune  instinctively 
sought  shelter  under  her  protection.  There  was  an 
appearance  of  personal  debility  about  her,  that  ren- 
dered her  peculiarly  interesting ;  it  seemed  to  solicit  the 
interest  of  every  heart,  and  the  man  would  have  felt 
himself  degraded  who  would  not  have  put  his  life  at 
hazard  to  serve  her.  Yet,  when  firmness  of  character 
was  requisite,  when  fortitude  was  called  for  to  repel  the 
encroachments  of  aggression,  there  was  not  a  more  in- 
trepid being  in  existence.  I  will  present  a  noble  instance 
of  it.  An  American  soldier,  flying  from  a  party  of  the 
enemy,  sought  her  protection,  and  was  promised  it. 
The  I3ritish  pressing  close  upon  him,  insisted  that  he 
should  be  delivered  up,  threatening  immediate  and 
universal  destruction  in  case  of  refusal.  The  ladies, 
her  friends  and  companions,  who  were  in  the  house 
with  her,  shrunk  from  "the  contest,  and  were  silent; 
but  undaunted  by  their  threats,  this  intrepid  lady 
placed  herself  before  the  chamber  into  which  the  un- 
fortunate fugitive  had  been  conducted,  and  resolutely 
said, — "  To  men  of  honour  the  chamber  of  a  lady 
should  be  as  sacred  as  the  sanctuary !  I  will  defend 
the  passage  to  it,  though  I  perish.  You  may  succeed, 
and  enter  it,  but  it  shall  be  over  my  corpse."  "  By 
God,"  said  the  officer,  "  if  muskets  were  only  placed 
in  the  hands  of  a  few  such  women,  our  only  safety 
would  be  found  in  retreat.  Your  intrepidity.  Madam, 
gives  you  security,  from  me  you  shall  meet  no  further 
annoyance." 

Nor  is  this  the  only  instance  of  her  unconquerable 
fortitude.     At  Brabant,  the  seat  of  the  respectable 


MRS.  SnUBRICK.  '^M 

and  patriotic  Bishop  Smith,  a  Sergeant  of  Tarleton's 
Dragoons,  eager  for  the  acquisition  of  plunder,  follow- 
ed tiie  Overseer,  a  man  advanced  in  years,  into  the 
apartment  where  the  ladies  of  the  family  were  assem- 
bled, and  on  his  refusal  to  discover  the  spot  in  which 
the  plate  was  concealed,  struck  him  with  violence,  in- 
flicting a  severe  ^sabre  wound  across  the  shoulders. 
Aroused  by  the  infamy  of  the  act,  Mrs.  Shubrick,  start- 
ing from   her  seat,  and    placing  herself  betwixt  the 
ruffian  and  his  victim,  resolutely  said,  "  place  yourself 
behind  me  Murdoch,  the  interposition  of  my  body  shall 
give  you  protection,  or  I  will  die:"  then,  addressing 
herself  to  the  Sergeant,  exclaimed,  "  O  what  a  degra- 
dation of  manhood,  what  departure  from  that  gallantry 
which  was  once  the  characteristic  of  British  soldiers. 
Human  nature  is  degraded  by  your  barbarity; — but 
should  you  persist,  then  strike  at  me,  for  till  I  die,  no 
further  injury  shall  be  done  to  /w'm."     The  Sergeant, 
unable  to  resist  such  commanding  eloquence,  retired. 
The  hope,  however,  of  attaining  the  the  object  in 
view,  very  speedily  subjected  the  unfortunate  Murdoch 
to  new  persecution.     He  was  tied  up  under  the  very 
tree  where  the  plate  was  buried,  and  threatened  with 
immediate  execution,  unless  he  would  make  the  dis- 
covery required.     But  although  well  acquainted  with 
the  unrelenting  severity  of  of  his  enemy,  and  earnestly 
solicited  by  his  wife  to  save  his  life  by  a  speedy  con- 
fession of  the  place  of  deposit,  he  persisted  resolutely, 
that  a  sacred  trust  was  not  to  be  betrayed,  and  actually 
succeeded  in  preserving  it.     When  complimented  at 
an  after  period  on  his  heroic  firmness,  he  asserted,  that 
he  was  strengthened  in  his  resolution  by  the  recollec- 
tion that  a  part  of  the  plate  belonged  to  the  churchy 
and  that  he  should  have  considered  it  as  sacrilege,  had 
he  suffered  it,  though  a  weakness  of  disposition,  to  fall 
into  the  hands  of  robbers. 

31 


242  MRS.  IZARD. 


MRS.  RALPH  IZARD. 

During  ^he  period  when  the  British  were  confined 
witliia  very    narrow    limits,  in  the  neighbourhood  of 
Charleston,  Mrs.  Ralph  Izard,  of  Fair  Sprinj^,  residing 
near  Dorchester,  and  within  the  raii2;e  of  their  excur- 
sions, whenever  they  ventured  beyond  their  lines,  was 
frequently  sul)j(>cted  to  annoyance,  but  by  the  suavity 
of  her  niatiiiers,  and  polite  attention  to  the  officers  who 
commanded,  had  happily  preserved  the  plantation  from 
destruction.     Mr.  Izard,  who  was  distinguished  by  his 
activity,  acting  as   Aid-de-Camp  to  the  commanding 
officer  of  the  Light  Troops,  was  at  home,  when  one  of 
these  parties  appeared,  and  had  scarcely  time  to  enter 
a  clothes-press,  when  the  house  was  surrounded  and 
filled   with  British  soldiers.     They  had  been  apprised 
of  iiis  visit,  and  their  object  was  to  make  him  a  prisoner. 
A  search  was  therefore  commenced,  and  menaces  held 
out,  that  unless   he   voluntarily  surrendered,  a  torch 
should   drive   him   from  the  place  of  his  concealment. 
The  comi)Osure  of  Mrs.  Izard,  at  such  a  moment,  was 
astonishing;  she  betrayed  no  symptoms  of  api)rehension, 
and  though  treated  with  more  than  usual  indignity,  an 
attempt  being  made  to  force  her  rings  from  her  fingers, 
and  much  valuable  property  plundered  in  her  presence, 
preserved    her   accustomed    politeness,   and    behaved 
with  such  urbanity,  as  to  induce  the  belief  that  the 
information   communicated    was   incorrect,    and   the 
party  were  drawn  off.     Mr.   Izard    now  quitted  his 
hiding   place,    and   rapidly  passing  the  Ashley,  gave 
notice  of  the  proximity  of  the  enemy.     He  chose  a 
happy  moment  for  his  escape,  for  speedily  returning, 
the  soldiers  immediately  sought  Mrs.  Izard's  chamber, 
and  burst  open  the  press,  which  they  had  not  before 
disturbed,  when  missing  their  object,  they  again  re- 


MRS.  IZARD.  -  243 

tired.  On  the  alarm  given  by  Mr.  Izard,  all  on  the 
other  side  of  the  river  were  on  the  alert.  A  body  of 
Cavalry  vv^as  pushed  across  Baeon's  Bridge,  who 
speedily  overtook  the  retiring  enemy,  and  so  com- 
pletely routed  them,  that  few  only  of  their  number 
returned  within  their  lines  to  tell  of  their  disaster. 
The  wardrobe  of  Mr.  Izard,  consisting  of  Parisian 
dress  coats,  and  much  of  the  finery  of  his  gayer  days, 
with  which  several  of  these  marauders  had  sportively 
arrayed  themselves,  was  recovered,  and  handsomely 
presented  by  him  to  the  victors,  who  had  so  rapidly 
revenged  the  interruption  of  his  visit  to  his  family. 

The  contrivances  adopted  by  the  ladies,  to  carry 
from  the  British  Garrison  supplies  to  the  gallant  de- 
fenders of  their  country,  were  highly  creditable  to 
their  ingenuity,  and  of  infinite  utility  to  their  friends. 
The  cloth  of  many  a  military  coat,  concealed  with 
art,  and  not  unfrequently  made  an  appendage  to  female 
attire,  has  escaped  the  vigilance  of  the  guards,  ex- 
pressly stationed  to  prevent  smuggling,  and  speedily 
converted  into  regimental  shape,  worn  triumphantly 
in  battle.  Boots  have,  in  many  instances,  been  relin- 
quished by  the  delicate  wearer  to  the  active  Partisan. 
I  have  seen  a  horseman's  helmet  concealed  by  a  well 
arranged  head-dress,  and  epaulettes  delivered  from  the 
folds  of  the  simple  cap  of  a  matron.  Feathers  and 
cockades  were  much  in  demand,  and  so  cunningly  hid, 
and  handsomely  presented,  that  he  could  have  been  no 
true  Knight,  who  did  not  feel  the  obligation,  to  defend 
them  to  the  last  extremity. 


While  such  the  heroism  of  the  Whig  Ladies,  among 
those  who,  favouring  opposite  principles,  became  the 
intimate  associates  of  the  successful  invaders,  there 
was  a  wide  distinction  of  conduct  and  character. — 


244  MRS.  MCCULLOCH. 

Where  peculiar. merit  calls  for  admiration,  I  should 
consider  it  uni)ardonable  to  withhold  it.  I  have  often 
heard  the  venerable  Mrs.  Barnwell  of  Beaufort,  the 
mother  of  the  patriotic  brothers  of  that  name,  declare, 
and  the  accuracy  of  her  statement  has  recently  been 
confirmed  by  the  respectable  Mrs.  Robert  Gibbes^  that 
while  mirth  and  revelry  invited  to  scenes  of  pleasure 
and  dissipation,  the  good  and  benevolent  Mrs.  M^Cul- 
loch,  was  more  frequently  to  be  met  with  in  the  houses 
and  society  of  the  distressed,  assuaging  the  afflictions 
of  disease,  and  administering  comfort  to  the  cai)tive, 
than  in  the  gayer  circles  that  surrounded  her.  Fol- 
'  lowing  the  fortunes  of  her  husband  to  Europe,  her 
attachment  to  her  country  was  never  diminished  ;  and 
falling  prematurely  a  vicitm  to  disease,  solicited  and 
obtained  a  promise  from  her  respectable  father,  that  her 
remains  should  rest  in  the  tomb  of  her  ancestors. 

There  was  another  lady,  whose  name  circumstances 
of  peculiar  delicacy  compel  me  to  withhold.  Did  I 
reveal  it,  merited  encomium  might  prove  offensive  to  a 
modesty  that  is  invincible.  Led,  from  the  political 
creed  of  her  friends  and  family,  to  favour  the  British 
interests,  it  never  caused  her,  for  an  instant,  to  cherish 
illiberal  animosity,  or  harbour  a  thought  inconsistent 
with  the  purest  dictates  of  humanity.  If  she  engaged 
in  scenes  of  gaity,  it  was  evident  from  the  calm  tenor 
of  her  conduct,  tliat  it  was  more  from  necessity  than 
choice.  She  could  not  consider  the  period,  when  her 
country  was  bleeding  at  every  pore,  a  season  of  joy 
and  festivity.  Every  act  of  oi)pression  was  abhorrent 
to  her  nature  ;  and  when  the  noble  Hayne  became  a 
victim  of  political  animosity,  she  wept  his  fate  as  she 
would  have  done  that  of  a  martyr.  The  benevolent 
feeling  that  distinguished  her  early  life,  has,  in  no 
degree,  lost  its  lustre  ;  and  though  now  living  much  in 


AND  OTHERS.  245 

retirement,  commands  a  respect  and  admiration,  that 
proclaims  her  an  honour  and  ornament  to  her  country. 

Connected  with  her  by  close  ties  of  consanguinity, 
and  still  more  by  the  most  generous  sympathies  of 
benevolence,  another  lady,  young,  amiable,  and  intel- 
ligent, shewed  every  disposition  to  assuage  the  afflic- 
tions of  the  unfortunate.  She  married  immediately 
after  the  war  a  British  officer,  who  settled  in  Carolina, 
when  unhappily,  death  arrested  her  honourable  career, 
and  robbed  society  of  one  of  its  greatest  ornaments. 

It  would  be  ingratitude  in  me,  who  knew  the  value 
of  their  friendship,  in  the  hour  of  the  deepest  distress, 
not  to  say,  that  in  the  benevolence  of  Dr.  Baron's 
family,  the  oppressed  and  broken  spirit  was  ever  sure 
to  meet  sympathy  and  consolation.  The  generous 
exertions  of  this  amiable  man,  unceasingly  employed 
to  soften  the  asperities  of  oppressive  power,  as  far  as 
his  influence  could  prevail — his  liberal  and  gratuitous 
offer  of  advice  and  medicine  to  the  afflicted  and  penny- 
less,  gave  him  unbounded  claim  to  praise,  and  justified 
that  ardent  attachment  to  him,  which  caused  his  death 
in  the  circle  of  onr  society,  to  be  regarded  as  a  public 
calamity. 


STRICTURES 


INJUDICIOUS    CONDUCT    OF    THE  BRITISH   COMMANDERS 
IN  THE  SOUTHERN  STATES. 


The  injudicious  conduct  of  the  British  commanders 
subsequent  to  the  capture  of  Charleston,  has  been  the 
subject  of  pointed  animadversion,  even  by  their  own 
historians.  Had  the  politic  and  generous  Carlton  been 
the  victor,  and  possessed  the  power  of  directing  the 
measures  of  government,  instead  of  the  austere  and 
unbending  Cornwallis,  the  difficulties  to  America  in 
establishing  her  Independence,  would  have  been  in- 
creased beyond  calculation. 

I  have  frequently  heard  General  Wayne  declare,  that 
while  he  commanded  a  division  of  the  army  on  the 
retreat  from  Quebec,  that  the  evil  he  most  dreaded, 
was  the  arrival  in  his  camp,  of  men  who  had  been 
prisoners  with  the  enemy.  Since  these,  after  having 
experienced  the  most  kind  treatment,  furnished  with 
comfortable  clothing,  and  dismissed  by  the  Comman- 
der in  Chief,  without  the  imposition  of  any  conditions 
for  the  regulation  of  their  future  conduct,  never  failed 
so  gratefully  to  acknowledge  his  forbearance  and  ge- 
nerosity, that  rapid  desertion  was  the  immediate  con- 
sequence. 


STRICTURES  ON  THE  BRITISH  OFFICERSA 

The  severity  exercised  by  General  Howe  X.o\ 
American  prisoners,  being  the  topic  of  conversatioiT 
among  some  officers,  who  had  been  taken  in  Canada 
by  Sir  Guy  Carlton,  General  Parsons,  who  was  pre- 
sent, exclaimed,  "  His  inhumanity  delights  me." — 
"  Why,  so  ?"  (was  the  immediate  inquiry)  "  You, 
gentlemen,"  said  Parsons,  "  have  been  kindly  treated 
by  a  generous  enemy.  Say,  would  you  be  inclined  to 
fight  against  him  ?"  The  answer  was,  "  No  !  not  if 
it  was  possible  to  avoid  it."  "  Such,"  added  Parsons, 
"  would  have  been  the  reply  of  the  troops  taken  by 
Howe,  had  he  treated  them  with  kindness  ;  but,  now 
we  are  confident  that  his  barbarity  will  raise  us  another 
army." 

Gates  too,  according  to  Gordon,  had  been  repeat- 
edly heard  to  say,  "  Had  General  Howe  treated  his 
prisoners  and  the  inhabitants  of  Jersey,  when  subdued, 
with  as  much  humanity  and  kindness  as  Sir  Guy 
Carlton  exercises  towards  his  prisoners,  it  would  have 
proved  fatal  to  the  Americans.* 


*  I  had  fondly  hoped,  wlien  speaking  thus  favourably  of  the  character  of  Sir 
Guy  Caelton,  that  I  had  attributed  to  him  no  other  virtues  than  such  as  he  had 
an  indisputable  right  to  claim.  Th^ipolicy  had  been  the  leading  principle  in  his 
conduct  to  wards  the  Americans  who  fell  into  his  po  w  er,  and  became  his  prisonesr, 
I  could  not  doubt;  but  seduced  by  the  appearance  of  his  generous  sympathy  in 
their  misfortunes,  I  had  constantly  indulged  the  belief,  that  motives  of  a  more 
noble  and  generous  nature  were  not  without  their  influence  ;  and  that,  although 
his  duty  to  his  Sovereign  compelled  him  to  act  with  energy  to  accomplish  the 
subjugation  of  the  revolted  Colonists,  yet,  that  a  clear  perception  of  the  justice 
of  the  cause  in  which  they  had  engaged,  and  generous  admiration  of  the  ardour 
with  which  they  contended  for  their  liberties,  had  led  him  to  temper  his  triumphs 
with  compassion,  and  to  mitigate  the  sufferings  of  an  enemy  whose  motives  he 
venerated,  though  he  could  not  openly  approve  them.  Glad  to  find  an  oppor- 
tunity of  bestowing  praise,  I  eagerly  embraced  it,  having  no  regret,  but  that 
with  the  fairest  field  for  the  exercise  of  benevolence,  our  enemies  had  so  little 
profited  by  it — so  rarely  availed  themselves  of  their  ability  to  show,  that, 
though  resolute  to  subdue,  they  had  not  forgotten  to  be  merciful.  I  am  sorry  to 
say,  that  circumstances  imperiously  compel  me  to  acknowledge  the  precipitancy 
of  my  judgment.  An  extract  of  a  letter  received  from  a  gentleman  of  the 
bightest  respectability,  a  man  incapable  of  fostering  an  unjust  prejudice,  and 


248  STRICTURES  ON 

What  might  have  been  the  consequence,  if  equal 
wisdom  had  swayed  the  British  commander  in  South- 
Carolina,  it  appals  me  to  think  of.  Fatigued  by  the 
toils  of  war,  dispirited  by  reiterated  disasters,  the 
prospect  of  success  but  glimmering  at  a  distance,  and 
by  many  altogether  despaired  of,  had  the  newly  sub- 
mitting inhabitants  been  suffered  to  enjoy  the  sweets  of 
repose,  and  benefits  of  the  security  guaranteed  by 
capitulation — had  kindness  been  substituted  for  op- 
pression, and  prrsuasion  used  in  lieu  of  force,  although 
I  have  no  doubt  but  that  Independence  would  ulti- 
mately have  been  gained,  yet  it  must  have  been,  at  a 
more  remote  period,  and  by  far  greater  sacrifices,  both 
of  treasure  and  blood.  But,  they  felt  all  the  debasing 
influences  of  despotic  power ;  and  deluded  by  the 
fallacious  hope,  that  victory  had  crushed  the  spirit  of 
.opposition,  that  every  spark  of  Liberty  had  expired, 
and  that,  however  burdensome  the  yoke,  the  people 
were  sufficiently  humbled  to  bear  it,  no  restraint  was 

who'e  liberality  of  sentiment  would  never  permit  to  sanction  a  calumny,  is  to 
iJiis  efTect : 

"  1  wish  to  warn  you  against  holding  up  Lord  Dorchester  (Sir  Guy  Carl- 
ton) as  a  British  worlhy.  His  conduct  can  be  so  clearly  developed,  by  all  who 
lived  at  the  days  of  his  exhibitions  of  his  opposite  ciiaracters,  that  your  history 
will  gain  no  ci-edit  by  your  propensity  for  impartiality,  no  doubt  sincere. 

'*  His  conduct  at  Quebec  was  hypocritical  and  Machiavelian.  It  was  dictated 
by  the  motive  of  seduction.  He  thought  he  could  dazzle  the  wavering  by  an 
apparent  generosity  and  benevolence  towards  our  unfortunate  prisoners.  The 
blaze  was  bnt  temporary,  for  every  one  of  intelligence  saw  through  its  phos- 
phoric radiance.  I  heard  no  exclamation  from  those  who  were  not  misled  by 
false  lights :  but  "  temco  Dauaos,  el  dona  ferentes."  I  was  in  Congress,  at 
Princeton,  when  he  threw  off  the  mask,  being  the  Commander  in  Chief  at  New- 
York,  after  the  preliminary  treaty  of  peace,  and  left  to  cap  the  climax  of  British 
hauteur  and  illiberality.  Every  arrangement  required  by  the  treaty,  or  the 
amity  of  a  liberal  and  gentlemanly  mind,  he  violated.  1  could  give  you  a  number 
of  facts  in  proof:  one  only  is  sufficient.  His  letters  and  correspondence  of 
every  kind,  were  so  insulting,  haughty,  impolitic,  and  insufferable,  that  by  a 
resolution  of  Congress,  to  which  I  gave  my  assent,  and  heartily  promoted,  our 
Secretaiy  was  directed  to  send  back  his  letters  unopened,  and  inform  him  that 
no  further  correspondence  would  be  held  with  him.  His  littleness,  and  bitter 
^lalignity  was  shown  in  every  step  he  took." 


THE  BRITISH  OFFICERS.  249 

imposed  on  aggression,  and  exactions  insisted  on,  too 
grievous    for   endurance.       Thus,    with    consciences 
ready  to  acquit  them  of  every  obligation,  that  it  ap- 
peared   inconvenient   to    keep,   u'ithout  the    slightest 
consideration  paid  to  the  opinions  of  the  parties  the 
most  interested,  paroles,  which  had  been  granted    by 
capitulation,  were  withdrawn,*  and  menaces  held  out — 
"  That   all   who  were  found  in  arms,  opposing  the 
Royal  authority,   should  not  only  be  deprived  of  pro-, 
perty,  but  subject  to  corporal  punishment ;"  and   fur- 
ther declared — "  That  as  it  was  evident  that  resist- 
ance must  prove  nugatory,  every  hope  of  essential  aid 
being  lost,  it  was   expected,  that  all  who  could  bear 
arms,  should  assume  them  in  support  of  the  established 
government.''''     A   more  tyrannical  measure  could  not 
have  been  conceived  of,  nor  one  adopted,  more  des- 
tructive to  the  prospects  and  true  interests  of  Britain. 
Anxious,  as  I  have  stated,  to  remain  in  peace  and  in 
retirement,  little  disposition  appeared  on  the  part  of 
the  inhabitants,  to  engage  again  in  scenes  of  hostility  ; 
but,  to  be  called  upon  at  once  to  renounce  long  and 
fondly  cherished  opinions — to  resist  in  arms,  the  very 
men  with  whom  they  had  been   a  little  before  asso- 
ciated, endeared  too,  in  many  cases,  by  friendship  and 
consanguinity,  and  to  give  their  aid   in   forging  the 
chains,  whi:'h  were  to  hold  their  country  in  perpetual 
bondage,   was  an  insult,  that  roused  to  action  every 
dormant  faculty,  and  nerved  every  arm  for  opposition 
and  revenge.     "  Force  us   into    the  field,"  was  the 
universal  cry,  "  and   our  choice  is  made.     We  will 
die  under  the  banners  of  our  country  !" 

*Stedman,  p.  199,  vol.  2,  says—"  The  Proclamation  of  Sir  Henry  Cun- 
TON,  without  their  consent,  abrogated  the  paroles  that  had  been  granted,  and 
in  one  instant,  converted  the  inhabitants  either  into  Loyal  subjects  or  Rebels- 
Policy  required  that  they  should  have  been  altered,  rather  at  their  own  appli- 
cation, individually,  than  by  the  arbitrary  fiat  of  the  Commander  in  Chief' 

■32 


250  STRICTURES  ON 

When  Colonel  Peter  Horry  once  said  to  General 
Marion,  "  I  am  afraid  that  our  happy  days  are  all  gone 
by,"  he  replied,  "  Do  not  cherish  such  idle  fears — our 
happy  days  are  not  gone  by.  Had  the  enemy  wit 
enough  to  play  a  generous  game,  we  should  be  ruined  ; 
but  with  them  humanity  is  out  of  the  question.  They 
will  treat  the  people  with  severity,  rouse  opposition  in 
every  quarter,  and  send  recruits  to  our  standard,  till 
they  accomplish  their  own  destruction." 

COLONEL  ISAAC  HAYNE. 

The  revocation  of  these?  paroles  caused  the  untimely 
fate  of  the  gallant  Colonel  Hayne.  The  motives  which 
induced  him  to  resume  his  arms,  and  most  interesting 
particulars  relative  to  his  capture  and  execution,  are 
related  by  Dr.  Ramsay,  in  his  History  of  the  Revolu- 
tion of  South-Carolina,  much  in  detail,  but  he  has 
omitted  to  mention  some  facts  which  appear  to  me 
peculiarly  interesting,  and  worthy  of  record. 

Irregularities  in  tlie  mode  of  conducting  the  war,  in 
the  highest  degree  disgraceful  to  the  American  cause, 
had  frequently  occurred.  That  these  resulted,  for  the 
most  part,  from  excessive  provocation  on  the  part  of 
the  enemy,  and  lawless  excesses  encouraged  towards 
the  whig  inhabitants  of  the  South,  cannot  be  denied, 
and  as  acts  of  retaliation  can  alone  be  palliated,  even 
with  a  shadows  of  excuse.*     No  man  lamented  them 

*I  would  not  willingly  enter  into  details  of  the  sanguinary  warfare,  which, 
at  this  period,  prevailed  in  the  Southern  Division  of  the  State,  but  in  support 
of  the  correctness  of  the  statement  I  have  made,  will  present  two  lamentable 
instances  of  it.  Captain  Duharty,  a  most  intrepid  soldier,  and  determined 
Whig,  having,  on  Provost's  invasion,  blown  up  Fort  Lyttleton,  where  he  com- 
manded, was  hastening  with  the  Beaufort  Company  of  militia  by  the  inland 
passage,  to  aid  in  the  defence  of  Charleston,  when,  halting  on  John's  Island,  his 
party,  by  the  treachery  of  an  individual,  was  betrayed,  and  in  a  great  mea- 
sure, either  destroyed  or  made  prisoners.  He  himself  escaped,  arid  finding 
Beaufort;  on  his  return  to  the  South,  occupied  by  the  British,  sought  safety  in 


THE  BRITISH  OFFICERS.  251 

with  greater  sincerity  than  Colonel  Hayne,  for  none 
more  anxiously  wished  the  American  character  to 
be  free  from  reproach.  Soon,  then,  as  solicited 
by  his  neighbours,  and  the  inhabitants  generally,  of 
the  District,  to  resume  a  hostile  position,  to  become 
their  leader,  and  direct  their  operations  against  the 
enemy,  he  made  an  honourable  and  open  declaration: 
"  That  he  could  only  be  induced  to  comply  with  their 
wishes,  by  obtaining  a  solemn  promise  from  all  who 
were  to  serve  under  him,  that  an  immediate  stop 
should  be  put  to  every  unnecessary  severity ;  a  desi- 
deratum the  more  to  be  insisted  upon,  as  he  was 
resolved  that  exemplary  punishment  should  be  inflicted 
on  every  individual  who  should  indulge  in  pillage,  or 
commit  any  act  of  inhumanity  against  the  foe."  A 
copy  of  the  address  made  to  his  soldiers  on  this  occa- 
sion, was  found  on  him  at  the  period  of  his  captivity  ; 
but  although  it  forcibly  expressed  his  abhorrence  of 

concealment.  Marked  as  a  particular  object  of  vengeance,  from  the  eaergy 
of  his  character,  every  exertion  was  made  for  his  destruction.  A  Captain 
Pendarvis  was  particularly  active  iii  pursuit,  and  having  discovered  the  place 
of  his  retreat,  surprised,  and  with  circumstances  of  peculiar  cruelty,  put  him  to 
death,  suffering  his  Lieutenant  Patterson,  with  more  than  savage  barbarity, 
ere  yet  the  vital  spark  had  expired,  to  disfigure  and  mutilate  the  bleeding 
corpse.  Messrs.  Leacraft  and  Talbird,  the  friends  of  the  deceased,  who 
were  with  him  when  surprised,  escaped  and  retired  into  the  iiitei-ior  countiy, 
but  speedily  hearing  that  the  standard  of  opposition  was  raised  by  Colonel  Har- 
ding, returned,  and  were  present  at  the  capture  of  the  Fort  at  Pocotaligo.  Dis- 
appointed in  not  meeting  their  sanguinary  persecutor  among  the  prisoners,  Mr. 
Leacraft,  accompanied  by  an  associate  named  Betterson,  set  out  in  search 
of  him,  and  finding  him  on  his  plantation,  in  company  with  his  Lieutenant,  by 
a  rifle  ball  which  passed  directly  through  his  heart,  laid  him  dead  as  he  fled 
from  him,  and  immediataly  sabr'ingthe  intimidated  Paitekson>  sacrificed  him 
also  to  his  revenge.  Another  and  truly  distressing  occurrence  took  place  in 
the  neighbourhood  of  Colonel  Havre.  Mr.  John  Inglis,  a  young  Scotchman 
of  exemplary  conduct  and  character,  was  shot  during  the  darkness  of  the 
night  through  mistake — the  individual  who  did  the  deed  bitterly  lamenting  it 
as  he  had  been  his  schoolfellow  and  companion  but  a  little  before  at  Inverness  ; 
candidly  avowing,  that  he  meant  to  kill  Colonel  Thomas  Inglis,  who  had 
brought  him  to  the  foot  of  the  gallows  on  some  trifling  occasion,  and  would 
but  for  the  interposition  of  a  superior  officer,  have  hansed  him. 


252  STRICTURES  ON 

crime,  and  was  replete  with  sentiments  that  did  honour 
to  his  humanity,  it  availed  not  to  soften  the  rigour  ot 
persecution,  nor  in  the  slightest  degree  to  mitigate  the 
severity  of  the  punishment  denounced  against  him. 
When  the  paper  which  contained  this  honourable  tes- 
timony of  generous  feeling  was  presented  to  Major 
M'Kenzie,  who  sat  as  President  of  the  tribunal  before 
which  Colonel  Hayne  was  arraigned,  he,  with  great 
expression  of  sensibility,  requested  the  prisoner  "  to 
retain  it  till  he  should  be  brought  before  the  Court- 
Martial  tliat  was  to  determine  his  fate,"  assuring  him, 
"  that  the  present  Court  were  only  directed  to  inquire, 
whether  or  not  he  acknowledged  himself  to  be  the  in- 
dividual who  had  taken  protection."  It  is  unnecessary 
to  add,  that  this  trial  was  never  granted.  Lord  Raw- 
don  reached  the  city  from  the  interior  country,  and  at 
his  command  an  order  for  immediate  execution  was 
issued.  Little  did  the  sympathy  that  melted  every 
heart  to  tenderness — little  did  the  pathetic  address  of 
the  lovely  daughters  of  the  soil,  calculated  to  move 
even  the  bosom  of  obduracy,  avail.  Heedless  of  the 
prayers  and  solicitations  of  his  afflicted  friends  and 
relatives,  deaf  to  the  cries  of  his  children,  who  even 
with  bended  knees  interceded  for  mercy,  insensible  to 
the  dictates  of  humanity,  his  resolution  was  fixed  as 
adamant,  and  a  hero  was  sacrificed. 

A  gentleman  of  veracity,  who  on  this  occasion  vainly 
flattered  himself  that  an  execution  was  not  seriously 
to  be  apprehended,  from  which  no  present  good  nor 
future  advantage  could  possibly  arise,  has  often  de- 
clared that  the  Secretary,  Harry  Barry,  assured  him, 
^'  that  his  cherished  expectations  would  be  disappoint- 
ed, for  that  the  opinions  of  Lord  Rawdon  were  immu- 
table ;  and  that  since  his  fiat  had  been  death,  execu- 
tion would  inevitably  follow. 

li  Yet  this  man  has  become  a  God  !" 


THE  BRITISH  OFFICERS.  253 

And  because  the  pusillanimity  of  the  Duke  of  Rich- 
mond occasioned  him  to  shrink  from  an  accusation, 
which,   having  made,  he  was  called   upon  by  every 
principle  of  justice  and  manly  virtue  to  support,  he  is 
deemed  a  hero,  and  without  the  slightest  imputation  of 
criminality,    regarded   as  free   from  every  reproach.* 
1  would   mention,  that  immediately  previous  to  the 
commencement  of  the  Revolutionary  War,  this  noble- 
man was  in  Italy,   and  in  habits  of  intimacy  with  a 
gentleman  of  our  country,!  who  was  afterwards  sent 
by  Congress  to  the  Court  of  Tuscany,  then  governed 
by  a  branch  of  the  House  of  Austria,  the  better  to  con- 
ciliate the  good    will  of  the  Emperor   of  Germany 
towards  America.     The  language  of  Lord  Rawdon 
was,  at  that  period„altogether  favourable  to  the  cause 
of  Liberty.    He  approved  our  resistance,  and  cordially 
wished  us  success.     How  little  his  subsequent  conduct 
corresponded  with  his  declarations,  and  conformed  to 
these   sentiments,  it  is   scarcely    necessary   to   state. 
While  the   hope  of  conquest  remained  to  Britain,  no 
man  was  more  indefatigable  in  his  efforts  to  achieve  its 
accomplishment;  and  as  a  soldier,  he  justly  acquired  a 
very  high  degree  of  reputation.     Yet  how  lost  must  we 
consider  him  to  every  sense  of  the  duty  which  he  owed 
to  his  king  and  to  his  country,  when  it  is  remembered, 

"  The  Duke  of  Richmond  called  the  attention  of  the  House  of  Lords,  to  the 
inhuman  execution  of  Colonel  Hayne,  the  particulars  of  which  had  been  for- 
warded to  him  by  Mr.  John  Bowman.  Lord  RA^^'D0N,  arriving  in  Europe, 
denied  the  charge,  threatening  to  call  on  the  Duke  for  personal  satisfactiooj 
unless  an  immediate  apology  should  remove  the  stain  from  his  injured  honour. 
The  Duke  knew  full  well  the  justice  of  the  charge.  He  was  personally  ac- 
quainted with  Mr.  Bowman,  had  often  sought  information  from  him  relative  to 
American  affairs,  and  had  never  any  cause  to  question  his  veracity;  but  his 
courage  at  the  moment  must  have  been  at  a  low  ebb.  He  hesitated  indeed  on 
the  inconsistency  of  his  conduct ;  but  ultimately  averred,  "  That  he  had  re- 
ceived his  information  from  ont  Bowman,  whom  he  knew  nothing  about.  He 
was,  he  confessed,  rash  in  his  charge,  and  solicited  pardon  for  having  made  it." 

t  Ralph  Izafd,  Sen.  Esq. 


254  STRICTURES  ON 

that  he  retired  from  command  at  the  very  period  that 
his  services  Vi^ere  most  required  to  contend  against  the 
increasing  difficulties  of  the  station,  leaving  the  conduct 
of  the  army  to  men  miserably  deficient  in  talent,  and 
altogether  unequal  in  energy  to  meet  the  exigencies  of 
the  times.  And  why  was  this  done  ?  Not  on  the  plea 
of  health,  which  he  would  willingly  have  insinuated, 
by  a  fruitless  effort  made  to  procure  from  a  physician 
of  distinguished  talent,  a  certificate  of  his  inability  to 
continue  in  the  field  ;  but,  from  a  clear  perception  of 
the  events  which  the  current  of  success  in  the  affairs  of 
America,  directed  by  General  Greene,  was  speedily  to 
produce,  and  a  tender,  irresistible  solicitude,  Platonic 
we  must  suppose,  from  the  great  purity  of  his  charac- 
ter, to  give  to  the  wife  of  his  trulj^  civil  and  courteous 
friend  protection  across  the  Atlantic* 

It  will  be  recollected,  that  on  his  passage  to  Europe, 
Lord  Rawdon  w^as  captured  by  the  French  fleet,  has- 
tening to  the  Chesapeake,  and  on  board  of  one  of  their 
vessels  sent  to  France.  At  Paris  he  again  met  with  a 
part  of  the  family  with  which  he  had  once  been  inti- 
mate in  Italy,  and  hearing  in  every  society  the  severity 
exercised  towards  Colonel  Hayne  reprobated,  as 
equally  impolitic  and  unjust,  unblushingly  insinuated, 
*'  that  contrary  to  his  opinion,  it  had  been  urged,  and 
insisted  upon  by  the  Commandant  of  Charleston." 
But  can  this  calumny  be  believed  ?  Can  an  accusation 

Lord  Rawdon  applied,  but  in  vain,  to  Dr.  Alexander  Garden,  a  Physiciaa 
of  high  reputation,  for  a  certificate,  testifying  his  inability  to  continue  in  the 
field.  This  statement  is  made  on  the  authority  of  Mr.  James  Penman,  a  Bri- 
tish subject  of  great  respectability,  who  further  assured  the  author  of  these 
Memoirs,  that  the  anger  of  Dr.  Garden  was  so  highly  excited  by  the  scan- 
dalous dereliction  of  duty  by  Lord  Rawdon,  that  on  the  manifestation  of  a 
design  by  many  tories,  to  pay  him  the  compliment  of  a  farewell  address,  h© 
boldly  protested  against  it;  declaring,  that  if  they  would  draw  up  a  remon- 
Ptrance,  reprobating  his  determination  to  quit  the  army  at  a  moment  that  he 
knew  that  there  was  not,  in  the  Southern  service,  a  man  qualified  to  command 
it.  Ins  name  should  be  the  first  inserted. 


THE  BRITISH  OFFICERS.  253 

.so  improbable  be  tolerated  ?  Charged  as  Colonel 
Balfour  has  been  with  severity,  he  has  never  been 
considered  as  thirsting  for  blood !  No  execution  had 
disgraced  his  administration  in  Charleston.  At  Cam- 
den, where  Lord  Rawdon  commanded,  they  were  too 
frequent  to  excite  surprise.  Had  Colonel  Balfour 
wished  the  death  of  his  prisoner,  would  he  not,  in  the 
first  instance,  have  commanded  it?  He  had  the  power 
to  do  so.  The  imperious  orders  of  Lord  Cornwallis 
would  have  sanctioned  the  act,  and  at  his  nod  the 
victim  must  have  suffered.  Yet  he  remained  for  several 
weeks  uninjured;  strictly  guarded,  it  is  certain,  but 
with  due  attention  to  his  rank  and  to  his  sufferings ; 
but  Lord  Rawdon  arrived,  and  the  influences  of 
Heaven-born  mercy  were  extinguished.  Colonel 
Hayne,  as  the  object  of  his  deadly  hate,  was  con- 
demned, and  suffered  with  the  patience  and  fortitude 
of  a  martyr,*  while  from  his  tomb  a  flame  arose,  which 
widely  diffused,  gave  constant  increase  to  the  spirit  of 
revolt,  till  the  expulsion  of  the  enemy  caused  justice 
to  triumph,  and  confirmed  the  Independency  of  the 
Union. 

Such  a  man  was  Lord  Rawdon.  Can  it,  then, 
be  attributed  to  prejudice  or  malignity  that  I  deny  his 
right  to  the  honours  heaped  upon  him,  and  exhibiting 

*  Colonel  Lee  gives  the  following  affecting  narrative  of  the  last  scene  of 
his  life  : — "  Accompanied  by  a  few  friends,  he  marched  with  unruffled  serenity 
through  a  weeping  crowd,  to  the  place  of  execution.  The  sight  of  the  gibbet 
occasioned  a  momentary  expression  of  agony  and  dismay.  He  paused — but 
immediately  recovering  his  wonted  firmness,  moved  forward.  At  this  instant, 
a  friend  whispered  his  confidence,  that  he  would  exhibit  an  example  of  the 
firmness  with  which  an  American  could  die.  "  I  will  endeavour  to  do  so," 
was  the  reply  of  the  modest  Martyr.  Never  was  intention  better  fulfilled.— 
Neither  arrogating  superiority,  nor  betraying  weakness,  he  ascended  the  cart 
unsupported  and  unappalled.  Having  taken  leave  of  his  friends,  and  com- 
mended his  infant  family  to  their  protection,  he  drew  the  cap  over  his  eyes, 
and  illustrated,  by  his  demeanor,  that  death  in  the  cause  of  our  country,  feven 
on  a  gallows,  cannot  appal  the  virtues  of  the  brave. 

"  V^st  le  crime  quifuU  la  lionte,  et  nonpas  I'echafaud." 

€0RNEIJ.I.E. 


256  STRICTURES  ON 

him  in  liis  proper  colours  to  a  deceived  and  infatuated 
nation,  exclaim  with  the  Poet, 

"  Ye  Gods  it  doth  amaze  me, 
A  man  of  such  a  feeble  temper,  should 
So  get  the  start  of  this  majestic  world, 
And  bear  the  palm." 

The  frequent  allusion  made  in  the  subsequent  part 
of  this  work,  to  the  violation  of  the  Capitulation  of 
Charleston,  and  the  consequences  resulting  from  it, 
require  that  a  more  particular  statement  should  be 
given  of  the  acts  of  injustice  and  oppression  particularly 
complained  of.  But  it  appears  altogether  unnecessary 
for  me  to  write  a  line  on  the  subject.  An  extract  from 
the  eloquent  speech  of  Governor  Rutledge,  delivered 
to  the  Legislature  at  Jacksonborough,  will  fully  detail 
them.  The  statement  may  perhaps,  at  the  present  day, 
be  considered  as  highly  coloured,  and  dictated  by  the 
strong  inipulses  of  political  prejudice  and  party  feeling, 
but  when  the  fair  and  impartial  statements  which 
1  shall  bring  into  view  are  considered,  when  the  in- 
stances are  detailed,  not  only  of  the  irritation  produced 
by  the  violence  of  individuals,  but  of  oppression  sanc- 
tioned by  authority,  it  will  be  seen  that  it  is  founded 
tipon  a  basis  of  truth  that  cannot  be  controverted. 

Governor  Rutledge,  eloquently  animadverting  on  the 
rigorous  and  unjustifiable  conduct  pursued  by  the  Bri- 
tish authorities,  thus  spoke  to  the  Assembly: — "Re- 
gardless of  the  sacred  lies  of  honour,  destitute  of  the 
feelings  of  humanity,  and  determined  to  extinguish,  if 
possible,  every  spark  of  freedom  in  this  country,  the 
enemy,  with  the  insolent  pride  of  conquerors,  gave 
unbounded  scope  to  the  exercise  of  their  tyrannical 
disposition,  infringed  their  public  engagements,  and 
violated  the  most  solemn  engagements.  Many  of  our 
worthiest  citizens,  without  cause,  were  long  and  closely 
confined — some  on  board  of  prison-ships,  and  others 
in  the  town  and  castle  of  St.  Augustine ;  their  pro- 
perties disposed  of  at   the  will  and   caprice   of  the 


THE  BRITISH  OFFICERS.  25^ 

esnemy,  and  their  families  sent  to  a  different  and  distant 
part  of  the  Continent,  without  the  means  of  support. 
Many  who  had  surrendered  prisoners  of  war,  were 
killed  in  cold  blood.  Several  suffered  death  in  the 
most  ignominous  manner,  and  others  were  delivered 
up  to  savages,  and  put  to  tortures,  under  which  they 
expired.  Thus,  the  lives,  liberties,  and  properties  of 
the  people  were  dependent  solely  on  the  pleasure  of  the 
British  officers,  who  deprived  them  of  either  or  all,  on 
the  most  frivolous  pretences.  Indians,  slaves,  and  a 
desperate  banditti  of  the  most  profligate  characters, 
were  caressed  and  employed  by  the  enemy  to  execute 
their  infamous  purposes.  Devastation  and  ruin  marked 
their  progress,  and  that  of  their  adherents ;  nor  were 
their  violences  restrained  by  the  charms  or  influence  of 
beauty  and  innocence;  even  the  fair  sex,  whom  it  is 
the  duty  of  all,  and  the  pleasure  and  pride  of  the  brave 
to  protect,  they,  and  their  tender  offspring,  were  victims 
to  the  inveterate  malice  of  an  unrelenting  foe.  Nei- 
ther the  tears  of  mothers,  nor  the  cries  of  infants, 
could  excite  in  their  breasts  pity  or  compassion.  Not 
only  the  peaceful  habitations  of  the  widow,  the  aged, 
and  the  infirm,  but  the  holy  temples  of  the  Most  High 
were  consumed  in  flames,  kindled  by  their  sacrilegious 
hands.  They  have  tarnished  the  glory  of.  the  British 
arms,  disgraced  the  profession  of  a  British  soldier,  and 
fixed  indelible  stigmas  of  rapine,  cruelty,  perfidy,  and 
profaneness  on  the  British  name." 

CAPITULATION- 

"  Art.  IV.  The  militia  now  in  garrison,  shall  be  permitted  to  re- 
turn to  their  respective  homes,  as  prisoners  on  parole ;  which  parole^ 
as  long  as  they  observe,  shall  secure  them  from  being  molested  in 
their  property  by  the  British  troops." 

"  Art.  IX.  All  civil  officers,  and  the  citizens  who  have  borne  arms 
♦luring  the  siege,  must  be  prisoners  on  parole ;  and  with  respect  to 
their  property  in  tlie  city,  they  shall  have  the  same  terms  as  are 
granted  to  the  militia." 


^5n 


STRICTURES  ON 


Proceeding  in  my  strictures  on  the  conduct  of  the 
British  commanders,  I  would  briefly  advert  to  the 
mode  adopted  by  them  for  strengthening  their  military 
force,  declaring  it  equally  impolitic  and  inhuman.  At 
an  early  period  of  the  war,  it  had  been  considered 
expedient  to  raise  Provincial  Corps.  The  more  effec- 
tually to  accomplish  it,  commissions  were  distributed, 
and  rank  established  according  to  the  number^of  re- 
cruits produced  by  the  candidates  who  wished  to 
obtain  them.  No  questions  were  asked  with  regard 
to  character — it  was  men,  not  morals  that  were  in 
demand.  The  intriguer,  in  consequence,  who  could, 
'by  the  liberality  of  his  purse,  the  arts  of  insinuation, 
or  cajoling  of  any  kind,  produce  soldiers,  secured  the 
highest  appointment.  From  such  men,  with  the  cur- 
rent of  success  in  their  favour,  little  of  moderation 
could  be  looked  for  ;  their  object  was  to  better  their 
fortunes ;  and  nought  appeared  so  propitious  to  the 
accomplishment  of  their  desire,  as  a  determined  oppo- 
sition on  the  part  of  their  adversaries.  Submission 
effectually  destroyed  their  hopes — resistance  sanctioned 
oppression — the  profession  of  allegiance  called  for 
indulgence — the  term  Rebel,  gave  licence  to  plunder 
with  impunity.  Can  it  be  wondered  at,  then,  that  far 
less  inclination  was  shown  to  conciliate,  than  con- 
demn ?  I  disdaift  every  feeling  of  prejudice  ;  and  in 
a  contest,  where  great  diversity  of  opinion  was  to  be 
looked  for,  willingly  grant  the  due  tribute  of  praise 
to  all  who,  conscientiously  adopting  principles,  steadily 
supported  them.  Far  be  it  from  me,  to  censure  with- 
out discrimination  the  adherents  to  the  cause  of  Bri- 
tain. Many  of  the  officers  of  the  Provincial  Corps, 
were  pure  in  character,  and  are  to  be  named  with 
respect.  They  were  the  decided  enemies  of  our 
cause,  but  free  from  the  pollution  of  insatiable  avarice; 
and  in  the  hour  of  victory,  alive  to  the  impulses  of 
humanity,  they  forgot  not  that  they  ivere  men.    Their 


THE  BRITISH  OFFICERS.  259 

zeal  and  activity  in  the  cause  in  which  they  had  en- 
gaged, were  of  the  highest  utility  to  our  enemies,  and 
leads  to  the  developenient  of  a  melancholy  fact,  that 
in  almost  every  instance  where  our  armies  have  been 
foiled  in  action,  the  opposition  proceeded  from  our 
own  countrymen. 

At  Savannah,  the  defenders  of  the  Spring-Hill  Re- 
doubt, where  the  gallant  Tawse  fell,  were  Americans. 
The  Garrison  of  the  post  at  Augusta,  so  long  and 
obstinately  maintained  by  Browne,  were  Americans. 
Ninety-Six  was  preserved  to  the  British  by  Cruger 
and  Green,  commanding  the  New-Jersey  Volunteers 
and  Delancy^s  Regiments,  both  composed  of  native 
Americans.  The  occupation  of  the  brick  building  at 
Eutaw,  by  the  same  Cruger  and  his  Provincials,  could 
alone  have  saved  the  British  army  from  destruction. 
Allen's,  Skinner's,  Browne's,  Hamilton's,  Simcoe's, 
and  other  American  Corps,  greatly  distinguished  them- 
selves by  their  bravery,  and  were  comparatively  gene- 
rous and  merciful.  The  stigma  remains  on  Tarleton^s 
Legion  alone,  that  as  often  as  they  gained  an  advan- 
tage, and  triumphed  in  success,  the  virtue  of  humanity 
was  lost. 

But  far  greater  injury  was  done  to  the  cause  of 
Britain,  by  the  latitude  allowed  by  the  established 
authorities  to  the  marauding  corps  of  M'Girth,  Fan- 
ning, Huck,  and  others,  which  could  not  fail  to  in- 
crease the  spirit  of  opposition,  and  deadly  hate  to  a 
government  that  would  sanction  their  barbarities.  To 
detail  the  deeds  of  horror  perpetrated  by  this  merciless 
banditti,  would  revive  recollections,  that  for  the  honour 
of  human  nature,  had  better  be  buried  in  oblivion. 
Suffice  it  to  say,  that  notwithstanding  solemn  conven- 
tions, that  surrender  should  secure  protection  from 
injury,  death  was  made  the  constant  attendant  on 
victory.  Thus,  at  the  close  of  the  year  1781,  Captain 
Turner  and  twenty  men,  after  receiving  the  most 


260  STRICTURES  ON 

solemn  assurances,*  that  they  should  be  treated  as 
prisoners  of  war,  were  deliberately  murdered.  Colo- 
nel Hayes  and  Captain  Williams,  with  fourteen  of 
their  followers,  were,  in  like  manner,  after  surrender- 
ing, cut  to  pieces  in  cold  blood.  The  activity  and 
cool  intrepidity  of  Mr.  John  Hunter,  at  the  period  a 
mere  youth,  but  in  latter  times,  distinguished  as  an 
enlightened  legislator,  saved  him  from  the  merciless 
vengeance  of  Fanning.  Ordered  for  immediate  exe- 
cution, he  had  reached  the  foot  of  the  fatal  tree  on 
which  he  was  to  suffer,  and  appeared  to  be  alone  in- 
tent on  the  exercise  of  his  devotions,  when,  observing 
a  very  spirited  horse  within  his  reach,  he,  by  sudden 
exertion,  freed  himself  from  confinement,  leapt  into 
the  saddle,  and  putting  the  animal  to  his  speed,  though 
followed  by  a  shower  of  bullets,  escaped  uninjured. 

Another  cause  of  injury  to  Britain,  arose  from  the 
fallacious  promises  held  out  in  the  Proclamations  of 
their  commanders.  In  North-Carolina,  the  pledge  of 
oblivion  for  offences,  of  permanent  protection  to  per- 
son and  property,  and  of  liberal  rewards  to  all  who 
should  take  up  arms  in  the  service  of  the  King  of 
Great  Britain,  to  men  already  partial  in  their  attach- 
ment to  his  cause,  held  out  temptations  that  were  irre- 
sistible ;  and  it  is  well  known,  that  at  Hillsborough, 
seven  effective  companies  were  raised  in  one  day.  But 
when  it  appeared,  that  in  the  narrow  circle  of  encamp- 
ment, security  could  alone  be  found  ;  when  to  venture 
beyond  its  limits,  was  to  meet  captivity  or  destruc- 
tion— when  the  boast  of  power  was  succeeded  by 
I)recipitate  retreat,  and  the  unfortunates  who  had  been 
seduced,  were  left  in  the  midst  of  their  exasperated 
neighbours,  to  suffer  the  penalties  of  their  disaffection 
and  precipitancy,  or  compelled  to  renounce  the  delights 
of  home,  and  for  ever  abandon  their  possessions,  the 

"  Vide  Ramsav,  vol.  2,  p  272-3. 


THE  BRITISH  OFFICERS.  261 

delusion  ceased,  and  confidence  was  so  completely 
withdrawn,  that  at  Cross  Creek,  the  settlement  con- 
sidered the  most  loyal,  although  supplies  were  as 
liberally  furnished  as  the  slender  means  of  the  inha- 
bitants would  permit,  the  retiring  army  of  Lord  Corn- 
wallis  was  not  strengthened  by  a  single  recruit.^ 

In  South-Carolina,  even  after  the  surrender  or 
evacuation  of  all  the  posts  in  the  interior  country,  the 
farce  was  still  kept  up  by  Lord  Rawdon  and  Colonel 
Balfour.t  And  at  the  eleventh  hour,  a  Proclamation 
issued  by  General  Leslie,!  called  for  submission,  and 
made  a  tender  of  pardon  to  the  deluded  inhabitants 
for  past  offences,  which,  ere  it  could  be  well  put 
into  circulation,  was  followed  by  a  second,  strongly 
recommending  to  the  Loyal  inhabitants,  "  by  the  offer 
of  submission  to  the  American  Government,  to  obtain 
a  mitigation  of  the  penalties  denounced  against  their 
political  offences." 

Finally ;  with  regard  to  the  details  of  victories, 
which,  founded  in  misrepresentation,  could  not  fail  to 
injure  the  cause  of  Britain,  I  shall  content  myself  with 

*  Lord  CoRNvvALLis,  after  the  battle  of  Guilford,  publisiied  a  Proclamation, 
boasting  of  a  complete  victory,  and  erecting  the  Royal  Standard,  promised 
pardon  and  protection  to  all  who  should  join  it  by  a  particular  day  ;  but  this 
ivas  scarcely  done,  before  he  found  it  necessary,  after  destroying  his  baggage, 
and  abandoning  his  wounded,  and  newly  acquired  friends,  to  the  mercy  of  his 
enemy,  to  march  off  with  precipitancy  to  Wilmington.^ 

t  In  a  Proclamation,  dated  Monk's  Corner,  May  24th,  1781,  Lord  Rawdon 
and  Lieutenant  Colonel  Balfour  gave  assurances,  "that  every  support  should 
be  afforded  to  the  Loyal  inhabitants,  and  that  they  would  shortly  reinstate  them 
in  the  free  and  peaceable  possession  of  the  property  from  which  they  had  be«n 
driven."|l 

t  General  Leslie  further  assured  "  his  Majesty's  loyal  subjects  in  the  Pro- 
vince, that  they  might  rely  on  speedy  and  effectual  support  being  given  to  them 
by  the  exertion  of  the  forces  under  his  command  ;  and  that  in  every  event  and 
situation,  their  interests  and  security  should  be  considered  as  inseparably  con- 
nected with  those  of  his  Majesty's  troops." 

§  Vide  Ramsay's  Revolution  of  Scuth-Corolina,  vol.  2  p.  482. 
I)  Ramsay's  Revolotion  of  Soulli-CaroUna,  vol.  2.  p.  SOS. 


262  STRICTURES  ON 

copying  the  words  of  M'Kenzie,  taken  from  his  Stric- 
tures on  Tarleton's  campaigns. 

*'  It  has  before  been  shown,  that  Lord  Cornwallis, 
with  respect  to  the  action  of  Blackstocks,  had  bestow- 
ed a  laurel  on  Lietuenant  Colonel  Tarleton,  that  should 
have  adorned  the  brows  of  Sumter. 

*'  Official  dispatches  have  been  frequently  forward- 
ed, founded  on  misrepresentation,  the  consequence  of 
which  has  been,  that  whole  garrisons  have  fired  vollies, 
and  bonfires  been  raised  to  commemorate  advantages 
which  never  existed."* 

One  extract  more  shall  be  given,  and  taken  from  a 
dispatch  published  immediately  subsequent  to  the  de- 
feat of  Colonel  Buford,  which  states,  that  *'  the  in- 
habitants from  every  quarter  had  repaired  to  the 
Royal  Army,  and  to  the  garrison  of  Charleston,  to 
declare  their  allegiance  to  the  King,  and  to  offer  their 
services  in  arms  to  support  the  government,  and  in 
many  instances  had  brought  in  their  former  oppressors 
and  leaders."!  Was  this  the  fact?  Who  is  there  that 
has  the  slightest  claim  to  veracity,  that  will  assert  it  ? 
The  happy  repartee  of  an  Irish  officer,  gives  an  admi- 
rable illustration  of  the  policy  pursued.  This  candid 
gentleman  being  asked,  why  an  order  had  been  given 
by  the  Commandant  of  Charleston  for  a  general  illu- 
mination, after  the  doubtful  victory  at  Guilford  Court- 
House,  replied, — "  Beyond  question,  the  better  to  keep 
the  people  in  the  dark." 


Considering  it  a  maxim,  that  the  military  character 
should  be  "  free  from  reproach,"  justice  requires,  that 
where  tarnished  with  crime,  or  even  in  the  slightest 
degree  suspected  of  incorrectness,  that  the  transgres- 

*  M'Kenzie's  Strictures  on  Tarleton's  Campaign, 
f  Vide  Ramsay's  Revolution  of  Soutli-Cai'olina,  vol.  p.  131. 


THE  BRITISH  OFFICERS.  263 

sors  should  be  named,  lest  others,  to  whom  their  atro- 
cities were  altogether  abhorrent,  should,  equally  with 
themselves,  be  subjected  to  the  stigma  of  reproach  and 
infamy.  That  British  officers,  natives  of  those  isles, 
heretofore  so  distinguished  for  correct  feelings  and 
generosity  of  conduct,  educated  as  gentlemen,  and  with 
a  proper  sense  of  the  dignity  attached  to  the  military 
character,  should  depart  from  the  strict  line  of  pro- 
priety, and  aggravate  misfortune  by  insult  and  injury, 
would  almost  surpass  credibility.  Yet,  such  was  the 
fact.  It  is  not  a  solitary  instance  that  will  be  produced 
to  support  the  charge.  The  power  to  injure  by  tem- 
porary advantage,  was  rendered  supreme ;  and  as  long 
as  its  influences  remained  unshaken,  it  was  neither 
age,  nor  sex,  nor  respectability  of  character,  that 
could  shield  the  unfortunate  from  its  baneful  influences. 
It  is  my  wish  to  examine  with  candour, 

"  And  give  the  palm,  or  shake  the  rod 
"  As  Justice  turns  the  scale." 

While,  therefore,  the  sword  of  Tarleton,*  the  torch 
of  WeymesSjf  the  rapacity  of  the  Lieutenant  Colonels- 
CochranJ  and  Provost,^  sweeping  over  the  land  with 

•  Of  Tarleton  I  shall  speak  particularly  in  another  place. 

t  Weymess  was  chiefly  distinguished  by  his  insatiable  desire  to  destroy  the 
habitations  of  his  opponents.  It  is  said  that  when  taken,  his  pocket-book 
contained  not  only  the  list  of  the  houses  already  destroyed,  bi*t  of  those  also 
which  he  intended,  at  a  future  day,  to  commit  to  the  flames. 

t  There  was  not  a  marauder  in  the  army,  not  even  M'Girth,  more  distin- 
guished for  sagacity  in  discovering  the  secret  deposits  of  plate,  and  appro- 
priating all  that  came  within  his  grasp,  than  Colonel  Cochran  :  and  he  is  much 
belied  by  the  reports  of  his  military  friends,  if  he  did  not  ship  to  Europe  several 
barrels  filled  with  the  aiticle,  to  revive  at  a  future  day  the  recollection  of  the 
toils  endured  in  procuring  it. 

§  A  blundering  Refugee,  one  of  a  number  who  gave  a  dinner  to  Lieutenant 
Colonel  Provost,  on  his  arrival  in  London  with  dispatches,  relt'tivj  to  the 
repulse  of  the  French  and  Americans  at  Savannah,  said  to  him,  on  Lting  pre- 
sented,— "  Well,  Colonel,  you  have  had  a  peep  at  Charleston,  and  given  a  t«i> 


264  STRICTURES  ON 

more  tlian  pestilential  destruction,  expose  the  feeble- 
ness of  age,  the  helplessness  of  infancy,  the  timid 
maidens'  innocence  and  hapless  widows'  griefs  to 
every  variety  of  wretchedness.  It  is  a  pleasure  to 
state,  and  great  would  be  my  delight  could  I  do  it  on 
a  more  extended  scale,  that  to  the  names  of  Brigadier 
A.  Clarke,*  of  the  Colonels  Webster  of  the  33d, 
CampbeU  of  the  71st,  Small  and  M' Arthur,  of  the 
Majors  Majoribanks,  Money  and  M'Leroth,  the  Offi- 
cers of  the  Staff,  M'Mahon  and  Black,  no  act  of 
inhumanity,  or  of  oppression,  was  ever  attached. 

To  the  officers  of  the  63d  and  64th,  and  71st  Regi- 
ment, with  the  exception  of  Weymess  and  Baird,  the 
generous  protection  of  property,  and  delicate  attention 
to  the  sufferings  of  the  afflicted,  has  been  uniformly 
attributed ;  and  to  this  hour,  the  names  of  Roberts, 
Lloyd,  D.  Campbell,  Grahame,  and  Torrianno,  are 
never  mentioned,  but  with  aftection  and  gratitude. 

rible  fright  to  the  Rebels.  'Tis  true,  that  on  youi'  expedition  you  gained  but  few 
laurels,  but  you  made  a  devilish  good  trading  voyage,  plundering,  as  we  are 
credibly  informed,  all  the  Islands  on  your  retreat."  "  Sir,"  said  the  Colonel, 
with  the  benignant  smile  of  innocence,  "  you  are  misinformed.  His  Majesty's 
troops  never  plunder."  The  company  blushed  for  the  incivility  of  their  asso- 
ciate ;  but  who  that  had  an  opportunity  of  witnessing  the  extent  of  Colonel 
Provost's  depredations,  will  deny  the  justice  of  the  accusation.  One  of  the 
party,  a  gentleman  of  high  respectability,  who  after  the  war  returned  to  Caro- 
lina, told  me  tiiat  four  of  his  best  negroes  were  selected  from  his  plantation, 
and  carried  oil"  by  Provost. 

*  This  excellent  officer,  and  perfect  gentleman,  was  sent  by  General  Care- 
ton,  to  Philadelphia,  at  the  conclusion  of  hostilities,  to  receive  the  British  pri- 
soners, who  were  to  be  released  from  captivity.  On  seeing  the  comforts  that 
had  been  afibrded  them,  the  attention  paid  to  their  accommodation  and  food, 
contrasting  it  probably  with  the  miseries  that  our  unfortunates  in  British  Prison- 
shi[)s  had  been  destined  to  endure,  he  appeared  altogether  overcome  by  his 
feelings,  and  unable  by  words  to  express  his  thanks,  did  it  in  a  far  more  flatter- 
ing style,  in  an  abundant  effusion  of  tears.  He  had  previously  gained  the  good 
will  of  the  Americans,  by  the  gentleness  of  his  government  while  commanding' 
the  British  forces  in  Georgia,  and  by  the  protection  afforded  to  property  vvhe« 
lliey  finally  retired  on  the  evacuation  of  Savannah. 


THE  BRITISH  OFFICERS.  265 

The  Lieutenant  Colonels  St.  George  and  Fox, 
Captain  Steward  of  the  Guards,  Wynyard  of  the  33d, 
M'Kenzie,  Charles  Morris  the  Purveyor,  old  West- 
minsters, suffered  not  a  difference  of  political  opinion 
to  destroy  the  recollection  of  early  attachments,  but  to 
their  suffering  school-fellows,  extended  every  gratifying 
attention  and  liberal  assistance  that  could  mitigate  the 
sevejiity  of  their  sufferings. 

Though  reluctant  to  enter  upon  a  detail  of  enor- 
mities, revolting  to  humanity,  it  is  necessary,  particu- 
larly to  state  some  of  the  occurrences  which  daily 
took  place,  to  sanction  the  accusation  of  ruthless 
severity  that  might  otherwise  be  deemed  unmerited. 

It  was  not  age,  in  those  days  of  sorrow  and  oppres- 
sion, that  could  protect  from  insidt.  The  venerable 
Mrs.  Brandford  witnessed  the  indecorous  conduct  of 
an  officer,  high  in  the  confidence  of  the  Commandant 
of  Charleston,*  putting  a  stick  into  the  hands  of  a 
slave,  with  a  positive  command  to  chastise  her  son-in- 
law,!  a  respectable  Planter,  advanced  in  years,  because 
he  had  advised  his  return  to  the  service  of  his  lawful 
master. 

It  was  not  sex — far  from  it,  the  delicacy  and  res- 
pect due  to  the  female  character,  was  disregarded  and 
forgotten.  Ladies  of  the  first  respectability,!  accused 
of  imaginary  crimes,  w'ere  thrust  into  the  dungeons  of 
the  Provost,  and  compelled,  promiscuously,  to  mingle 
with  a  motley  rabble,  distinguished  al5)ne  by  their  pro- 
fanity, and  the  atrocity  of  their  offences.  The  most 
tender  and  estimable  feelings  of  nature,  were  treated 
with  callous  indifference. 

To  one  afflicted  parent,^  permission  was  refused  to 
witness  the  interment  of  an  only  son.     To  another,!) 

^  Benson.  f  Mr.  E.  Horey.  |  Misses  Scarecens. 

^  General  rHAm.F..s  C.  PtxfKNEy.  ||  Mvs.  K.  Izard.  Rroad-strert. 

34 


^266  STRICTURES  ON 

admission  denied  at  iier  own  door,  while  holding  an 
expiring  infant  at  the  threshold. 

The  Steward  of  the  American  Hospital,  an  excel- 
lent and  honourable  man,  was  dismissed  from  his  post 
because  he  had  endeavoured  to  prevent  the  enlistment 
of  the  Continental  Soldiers  into  the  Regiment  of  Lord 
Charles  Montague.  Tiie  officiating  Physician,  D'Oli- 
phant,  and  Surgeons  of  the  department,  were  preven- 
ted from  administering  relief  to  the  patients  under 
their  care,  for  having  openly  reprobated  the  injustice 
of  the  measure. 

The  Captains  G.  A.  Hall  and  Heyward,  having 
surrendered  their  swords  as  prisoners  under  the  capitu- 
lation of  Charleston,  were  assailed  by  a  party  of  offi- 
cers on  the  public  street,  had  their  cockades  torn  from 
their  hats,  and  indignantly  trampled  under  foot.  The 
prisoners  selected  as  fit  objects  of  retaliation,  while 
conducted  to  the  ships  prepared  for  their  confinement, 
were  insulted  by  the  ribaldry  of  an  infuriate  mob,  and 
pelted  with  every  species  of  filth  that  could  annoy  or 
offend. 

Naught  but  the  insatiable  desire  to  persecute,  could 
have  occasioned  the  innocent  correspondence  of 
friends,  as  in  the  case  of  Colonel  Grimke  and  Mr. 
Kean,  to  be  construed  into  a  violation  of  parole,  so  as 
to  subject  them  to  an  increase  of  severities  already 
inflicted. 

Naught  but  the  determination  to  give  to  malignity 
a  sharper  sting,  caused  the  Commandant  of  St.  Augus- 
tine, to  sentence  Captain  Jacob  Read  to  rigourous  and 
solitary  confinement,  for  no  other  offence  alleged 
against  him,  than  having  transmitted  to  a  friend  in 
Charleston,  an  extract  from  a  Jamaica  paper,  giving 
intelligence  of  an  advantage  gained  by  a  Spanish 
squadron  over  a  fleet  of  British  transports  in  the  West 
Indies.  The  ostensible  cause,  in  neither  instance, 
could  have  been  the  true  one.     A  shadow  of  excuse 


THE  BRITISH  OFFICERS.  267 

'appeared  to  goad  with  vexations,  the  stubborn  virtue 
that  could  not  be  subdued  ;  and  every  shadow  was 
caught  at  that  afforded  pretext  for  aggression. 

The  liberty  of  working  for  the  support  of  their 
starving  families,  was  denied  to  all  who  refused  to 
solicit  protection.  Suits  to  distress  them  were  encou- 
raged ;  but  against  their  pleas,  the  doors  of  Justice,  as 
well  as  of  Mercy,  were  closed. 

Capitulants  could  not  pass  the  boundaries  of  the 
Garrison  on  the  land  side,  and  were  strictly  prohibited 
from  undertaking  any  water  excursion  on  the  other. 
If  they  ventured  abroad,  they  were  saluted  at  every 
turn  by  the  keenest  taunts  of  irony  and  reproach.  If 
they  remained  at  home,  the  numbers  and  temper  of  the 
military  quartered  upon  them,  left  them  without  a  ray 
of  comfort  to  cheer  them  under  the  pressure  of  cala- 
mity. It  may  truly  be  said,  that  the  cup  of  misery 
was  filled  to  an  overflow.  I  must  be  still  more  parti- 
cular. 

Where  the  exercise  of  peculiar  severity  was  con- 
templated, and  the  prevailing  authorities  wished  to 
bend  the  haughty  spirit  of  patriotism  to  submission,  or 
humble  the  constancy  that  bid  defiance  to  oppression, 
the  ready  instrument  of  tyranny  was  at  hand.  Who 
could  hear  of  the  wanton  insults  of  Major  Hanger, 
without  the  slightest  regard  either  to  decency  or  clean- 
liness, introducing  into  the  best  apartments  of  the 
most  respectable  families,  his  cats,  his  dogs,  and  his 
monkeys,  while  revelling  himself  in  every  species  of 
sensuality,  under  the  eyes  of  the  unprotected  females 
on  whom  he  was  billetted,  and  not  lament  that  Hea- 
ven had  not  spared  some  chosen  bolt  to  punish  his 
atrocity.     I  cannot  be  more  particular,  for 

"  'T would  fill  each  generous  breast  with  wild  amazement, 
"  To  hear  the  story  told." 

A  person,  requiring  of  this  unfeeling  man  the  parti- 
culars  of  Gates'  defeat,  he  replied,  "  Flushed  with 


268  STRICTURES  OiV 

victory,  and  eager  in  pursuit,  my  arm  was  too  well 
employed  to  allow  much  time  for  observation  ;  but, 
overtaking  the  wagon  of  De  Kalb,  on  which  was 
seated  a  Monkey,  fantastically  dressed,  I  ceased  to 
destroy,  and  addressing  the  affrighted  animal,  exclaim^ 
ed,  '  You,  Monsieur,  I  perceive,  are  a  Frenchman  and 
a  gentleman.'     Je  vous  donne  la  parole.^^ 

"  Wliere  were  thy  terrors,  conscience  ?  where  thy  justice  f 

"  That  this  bad  man  dare  boldly  own  his  crimes, 

"  Insult  ihy  sacred  power,  and  glory  in  it."'  Francis. 

It  cannot  be  easily  conceived,  from  what  unpromis- 
ing soil  Hope  will  spring  up  in  the  bosoms  of  the 
unliappy.  From  such  delusion  originated  the  fatal 
propensity  to  temporize  with  the  enemy,  and  to  seek 
protection.  Its  victims  paid  the  penalty  of  their  rash- 
ness, and  were  speedily  convinced,  that  they  had  gained 
but  little  by  the  change.  Indulgence,  however,  was 
occasionally  granted  to  their  wishes,  while  towards 
the  inflexible  in  principle,  a  rigid  austerity  and  an  unde- 
viating  system  of  oppression  was  maintained,  that  has 
not  its  parallel  in  history.  In  the  rejection  of  requests 
the  most  reasonable,  a  littleness  and  unmanly  spirit  of 
revenge  was  exhibited,  that  cannot  be  reprobated  with 
sufficient  severity. 

Pre-eminent  in  malignity  stood  the  Engineer  Mon- 
crief.  The  instances  of  oppression  issuing  from  his 
implacable  resentment  would  fill  a  volume.  I  shall 
confine  myself  to  one  Anecdote,  to  show  how  little 
he  knew,  justly  to  appreciate  the  dignified  inflexibility 
of  a  patriotic  heart. 

A  lady  of  the  highest  respectability,*  solicited,  as  a 
favour,  that  he  would  not  suffer  certain  Oak  Trees  of 
remarkable  beauty,  on  a  farm  which  he  occupied,  to 
be  destroyed,  as  they  were  highly  valued  by  her  son, 

''Mrs.  PufCKSEV,  mother  of  General  C.  C.  Piuckney. 


THE  BRITISH  OFFICERS.  269 

having  been  planted  by  his  father's  hand.  "  And 
where  is  your  son,  Madam  ?"  said  Colonel  Moncrief 
"  At  Haddreil's,  Sir — a  prisoner."  "  And  he  wishes 
me,  Madam,  to  have  these  trees  preserved  ?"  "  Yes, 
Sir,  if  possible."  "  Then,  tell  him,  Madam,  that  they 
wiil  make  excellent  fire-wood,  and  he  may  depend 
upon  it  they  shall  be  burnt."  Colonel  Moncrief  was 
no  jf'stPir — the  promptitude  of  his  actions  left  no  room 
for  suspense.  An  opportunity  was  offered  to  injure 
and  to  insult,  and  he  did  not  fail  to  embrace  it.  The 
trees  were  burnt. 

A  lady  of  the  highest  respectability,  writing  to  Colo- 
nel Tarleton,  requesting  the  liberty  of  using  one  or 
two  apartments  in  her  house,  immediately  occupied  by 
him,  as  they  would  essentially  contribute  to  her  com- 
fort, he  concisely  replied,  "  Madam,  after  mature 
deliberation,  my  eyes  are  so  opened,  and  senses  con- 
vinced, that  the  enemies  of  my  country  should  not 
enjoy  every  convenience,  that  I  hold  it  an  act  of  pro- 
priety to  retain  the  house  in  Broad-street,  given  me  by 
the  Commander  in  Chief  for  my  sole  accommodation. 
B.  Tarleton." 

When  Provost  invaded  Carolina,  a  considerable 
British  force  occui)ied  the  house  and  plantation  of  Mr. 
Robert  Gibbes,  on  the  Stono  River.  At  the  period  of 
their  arrival  there,  Mr.  John  Gibbes,  a  respectable 
gentleman,  worn  down  by  age  and  infirmity,  was  on  a 
visit  to  his  brother.  His  usual  residence  was  on  a  farm 
called  the  Grove,  where  the  Race  Ground  is  now 
established,  comprehending  several  of  the  neighbouring 
gentlemen's  seats,  and  at  the  period  improved  not  only 
with  taste  in  the  disposition  of  the  grounds,  but  by  the 
introduction  of  numberless  exotics  of  the  highest, 
beauty.  He  had  in  addition,  a  green-house  and  pinery, 
in  the  best  condition.  A  Major  Sheridan,  arriving  from 
the  army  on  the  Neck,  at  Mr.  Gibbes,  was  asked  by 
au  officer,  in  the  presence  of  the  brothers, — "  What 


270  STRICTURES  ON 

news  ?  shall  we  gain  possession  of  the  city  ?"  "  I  fear 
not,"  replied  Sheridan,  "but  we  have  made  glorious 
havoc  of  the  property  in  the  vicinity.  I  yesterday  wit- 
nessed the  destruction  of  an  elegant  establishment 
belonging  to  an  arch  Rebel,  who  luckily  for  himself 
was  absent.  You  would  have  been  delighted  to  see 
how  quickly  the  pine  apples  were  shared  among  our 
men,  and  how  rapidly  his  trees  and  ornamental  shrubs 
were  levelled  with  the  dust."  Mr.  John  Gibbes,  who 
was  a  man  of  strong  passions,  could  hear  no  more,  and 
regardless  of  consequences,  with  indignation,  exclaim- 
ed, *'  I  hope  that  the  Almighty  will  cause  the  arm  of 
the  scoundrel  who  struck  the  first  blow  to  wither  to 
his  shoulder."  "  How  is  this.  Sir,"  said  Sheridan. 
"  Dare  you,  Sir,  use  such  language  to  me."  "Yes," 
said  Mr.  Gibbes,  "  and  would  repeat  it  at  the  Altar." 
"  The  provocation,"  said  the  commanding  officer  pre- 
sent, "sufficiently  justifies  the  anger  of  Mr.  Gibbes; 
for  your  own  credit,  Sheridan,  let  the  matter  drop." 
The  catastrophe  was  dreadful.  To  banish  thought, 
Mr.  Gibbes,  unhappily  driven  to  the  indulgence  of  an 
intemperance  before  unknown,  retired  to  his  bed — and 
rose  no  more. 

A  certain  day  being  appointed,  after  which  none  but 
protection-men'were  allowed  to  exercise  either  trade 
or  profession.  A  poor  mechanic,  the  cries  of  whose 
family  for  bread  were  irresistible,  humbly  solicited  that 
a  protection  might  be  allowed  him,  though  the  hour  of 
demanding  it  had  gone  by.  "  God  knows,"  he  added, 
"  that  my  intention  was  to  have  asked  it,  had  it  not 
escaped  my  memory."  "  Retire,  Sir,"  said  Harry 
Barry,  "  you  had  ample  time  given  you  for  repentance, 
and  you  refused  to  embrace  it.  You  call  God  to  wit- 
ness your  intention.  Jesus  Christ  thought  it  no  dis- 
grace to  receive  a  certificate  from  the  hands  of  John 
the  Baptist,  of  his  faith  in  the  utility  of  baptism  to 
salvation.      You   should  not  have   felt  ashamed   to 


THE  BRITISH  OFFICERS.  271 

receive  from  the  hands  of  Nesbit  Balfour,  a  certificate 
that  would  do  away  the  remembrance  of  your  political 
sins,  and  renovate  your  faith  in  the  talents  and  virtues 
of  your  neglected  master  George  3d."  Thus,  allusions, 
to  ceremonies  the  most  sacred,  were  treated  with  levity, 
and  a  trifling  neglect,  probably  arising  from  forgetful- 
ness,  magnified  into  an  unpardonable  crime.  But 
respect  to  the  name  of  the  Saviour  could  scarcely  be 
expected  where  it  was  denied  to  worship  him.  The 
sanctity  of  the  Temple  could  not  protect  its  Altars.  The 
Church  in  Prince  William's  was  wantonly  burnt,  and 
for  no  other  reason,  as  the  incendiaries  asserted,  than 
that  it  added  greatly  to  the  beauty  of  the  scenery  about 
Sheldon,  the  seat  of  General  Bull.  The  Churches 
also,  in  St.  Bartholomew's  and  St.  Paul's  were  re- 
duced to  ashes.  The  Bible  and  books  of  prayer,  pre- 
sented by  Mrs.  Jacob  Motte,  taken  from  the  Church  of 
St.  James',  Santee,  were  purchased  in  London,  after 
the  peace,  by  a  member  of  the  Church,  and  restored  as 
a  sacred  gift,  according  to  the  intention  of  the  original 
donor. 

But  as  a  further  proof  that  no  species  of  tyranny 
was  left  unessayed,  that  could  force  the  unfortunate  to 
profess  sentiments  abhorrent  to  their  hearts,  a  more 
forcible  and  appropriate  instance  cannot  be  given,  than 
in  the  case  of  Mr.  Seabourn  Jones,  of  Georgia.  This 
gentleman  had  relinquished  his  country,  friends,  and 
home  to  oppose  the  enemy,  from  whom  he  neither  ex- 
pected, nor  would  willingly  have  received  favour.  But 
being  a  prisoner,  and  denied  the  privilege  of  procuring 
bread,  he  was  compelled  to  solicit  it.  The  re|)ly  was 
laconic  :  "  Take  protection,  and  gain  your  bread.  Ad- 
here to  the  standard  of  Rebellion,  and  starve."  His 
heart  forbade  the  one ;  the  other  would  necessarily 
have  followed,  had  not  the  happy  negotiation  of  Major 
Hyrne  succeeded,  and  restored  him  to  liberty  and  his 
country. 


DISTINGUISHED  BRITISH  OFFICERS. 


LORD  CORNVVALLIS. 

The  Bard,  who  best  knew  the  human  heart,  has 
said, 

"  Sweet  are  the  uses  of  adversity." 

Ill  the  instance  of  Lord  Cornwallis,  I  am  ready  to 
subscribe  to  his  opinion  ;  for,  from  the  moment  that  the 
sun  of  his  glory  set  at  York-Town,  and  from  the  ex- 
alted station  of  a  conqueror,  whose  prowess  was  long 
esteemed  irresistible,  he  became  himself  a  captive,  he 
appeared  as  much  distinguished  by  gentleness  and 
amiability,  by  justice  and  generosity,  as  he  had  been 
previously  characterized,  by  an  unbending  haughtiness 
of  demeanor,  and  a  severity  that  neither  the  powerful 
solicitations  of  the  oppressed,  rendered  eloquent  by 
their  sufferings,  nor  the  imperious  calls  of  mercy  and 
humanity  could  ever  subject  to  control.  Had  the 
same  dispositions  swayed  his  actions  in  America,  that 
influenced  his  conduct  while  in  command  in  Ireland 
and  in  India,  I  might  have  represented  him,  although 
a  decided,  still  a  generous  enemy — active  and  inde- 
fatigable in  his  exertions  to  obtain  victory — considerate 
and  humane  in  the  use  he  made  of  it  ;  but,  grateful  as 
the  duty  would  have  been  to  me,  it  is  denied  me  to 
perform  it.  I  cannot  compliment  at  the  expense  of 
truth,  and  must  speak  of  the  acts  of  aggression  which 
were  heaped  by  him  upon  my  bleeding  country,  as 
those  acts  deserve. 


CORNWALLIS.  273 

*   I  have  never  read  of  any  distinguished  military  cha- 
racter, either  in  ancient  or  modern  times,  let  the  pre- 
dominancy of  vicious  propensities  be  ever  so  conspi- 
cuous, that  had  not  some  trait  of  merit,  some  emanation 
of  noble  and  generous  feeling  to  recommend  it.     Take 
from  Lord  Cornwallis,  as  commander  of  the  British 
army  in  the  Southern  States,  the  lustre  of  dauntless 
intrepidity,   patient  in  supporting  difficulties,  indefati- 
gable in   surmounting  them,  and,  where,  in  contem- 
plating his  character,  shall  a  claim  to  any  perfection  be 
found,  that  could  entitle  him  to  praise  or  admiration. 
When  the  power  to  show  mercy  is  unlimited,  its 
exercise  cannot  be  withheld  without  guilt.     The  sen- 
timent was  in  no  manner  congenial  to  the  heart  of 
Lord    Cornwallis.     Forced,   for   the   preservation   of 
their  families,  to  solicit  British  protection,   he,  by  an 
increase  of  severity  and  unlooked  for  exactions,  compels 
his  converts  to  fly  to  the  hostile  camps  for  security  ; 
and  then,  in  a  letter  dated  August  18th,  1780,  thus 
addresses  Colonel  Cruger,  the  commandant  at  Ninety- 
gix  :* — "  I  have  given  orders,  that  all  the  inhabitants 
of  this  Province  who  had  submitted,  and  who  have 
taken  part  in  its  revolt,  shall  be  punished  with  the  great- 
est rigour — that  they  should  be  imprisoned,  and  their 
whole  property  taken  from  them  or  destroyed.     1  have 
ordered  in  the  most  positive  manner,  that  every  militia- 
man, who  had  borne  arms  with  us,  and  afterwards 
joined  the  enemy,  should  be  immediately  hanged  ;  and 
have  now,  Sir,  only  to  desire,  that  you  will  take  the 
most  vigorous  measures  to  extinguish  the  rebellion, 
and  that  you  will  obey,  in  the  strictest  manner,  the 
directions  given  in  this  letter." 

Had  he  exhibited  a  spark  of  humanity,  had  he 
soothed  the  afflictions  of  the  wretched,  softened  the 
pains  of  captivity,  or  with  generous  comi)assion  as- 

^  Vide  Ramsay's  Revolution  of  South-Carolina,  toI.  2,  p.  157. 

85 


274  CORNWALLIS. 

suaged  the  agonies  of  the  wounded  spirit ;  some  grate- 
ful heart  that  had  been  cheered  by  his  siiiile,  and 
rescued  from  despondency — some  parent,  thankful  for 
a  child  preserved,  or  wife,  whose  tears  had  saved  the 
partner  of  her  affections  from  unmerited  persecution, 
would  have  proclaimed  the  deed,  and  blessed  his  me- 
mory. But,  in  vain  do  we  seek  such  testimony  of  his 
worth.  One  universal  sentiment  towards  him  is  che- 
rished in  every  bosom,  "  He  but  enjoyed  power  to 
abuse  it." 

That  I  may  not  be  supposed  to  speak  at  random,  or 
give  indulgence  to  prejudices  that  are  without  a  foun- 
dation to  support  them,  I  will  give  his  character  as 
ihrice  presented  to  the  public  view. 

The  flagrant  violation  of  the  capitulation  of  Charles- 
ton, in  innumerable  instances,  being  considered  a  suffi- 
cient reason  to  deprive  Lord  Corn wal lis  of  the  benefits 
of  that  which  was  granted  to  him  at  the  surrender  of 
York-Town,  it  was  moved  in  Congress  by  the  Ho- 
nourable Arthur  Middleton,  a  Delegate  from  the  State 
of  South-Carolina,*  that — "  In  order  to  prevent 
future  controversy  on  the  subject  of  an  exchange,  Con- 
gress, who  represent  the  feelings,  as  well  as  the  sense 
of  the  nation,  do  declare,  that  Lieutenant  General 
Charles  Earl  Cornwallis  ought  not  to  be  exchanged  by 
composition,  not  from  any  apprehensions  of  his  influ- 
ence, or  superior  abilities,  but  because  they  look  upon 
him,  not  in  the  light  of  a  British  General,  but  a  bar- 
barian. In  proof  of  their  justice  in  classing  him  in  so 
degrading  a  predicament,  they  appeal  to  the  impartial 
history  of  his  conduct,  during  his  command  in  the 
Southern  and  Middle  States,  where  his  progress  may 
be  traced  by  blood  wantonly  spilt,  by  executions  un- 
warranted even  by  military  regulations,  and  by  the 
indiscriminate  plunder  of  property,  and  destruction  of 

■'  Vide  Ramsay's  Revolution  of  South-Carolina,  p.  330. 


*  CORNWALLIS.  275 

the  habitations  of  the  widow  and  orphan  ;  circum- 
stances disgraceful  to  the  arms  of  any  enlightened 
people — because  he  has  governed  himself  solely  upon 
principles  of  eastern  tyranny— has  broken  the  faith  of 
treaty,  solemnly  |)ledged  in  the  capitulation  of  Charles- 
ton, by  ordering  the  seizure  of  the  property  and  per- 
sons of  the  capitulants,  by  the  confinement  of  some  on 
board  of  prison  ships,  and  transportation  of  others  to 
St.  Augustine,  and  the  banishment  of  their  wives  and 
children — because  he  has  authorized  and  countenanced 
the  enlistment  of  upwards  of  five  hundred  American 
Soldiers  into  the  British  service,  or  rather  suffered 
them  to  be  compelled,  by  cruelties  and  hard  usage,  to 
take  arms  against  their  country  ;  and  in  numberless 
other  instances,  has  infringed  every  rule  of  war  esta- 
blished among  civilized  nations." 

On  the  anniversary  of  his  capture,  the  19th  of 
October,  1814,  in  an  address  to  the  youth  of  the  Cin- 
cinnati Society,  he  is  thus  noticed  : 

"  Gentlemen  of  the  Cincinnati. 

"  The  annive^rsary  of  the  eventful  day  which  we  celebrate,  filk 
the  heart  of  every  American  with  pride  and  gratitude.  We  recol- 
lect, with  exultation,  the  valour  which  broke  the  sceptre  of  oppres- 
sion, and  bow  with  thankfulness  before  the  beneficent  Providence, 
whose  protection  secured  to  us  the  blessings  of  Peace,  Liberty,  and 
Independence.  On  this  day  the  cloud  of  misfortune  obscured  the 
brilliant  achievements  of  our  most  active  and  implacable  enemy. 
The  visionary  confidence  that  his  genius  was  unequalled,  vanished. 
The  rapid  current  of  his  successes  rose  no  longer  superior  to  oppo- 
sition— his  triumphs  ceased — Cornwallis  fell.  He  was,  indeed,  a 
hero  in  arms,  but  dead  to  the  gentler  feeUngs  of  humanity  ;  a  stran- 
ger to  that  moderation  and  forbearance  which  gives  to  victory  its 
highest  attraction.  The  establishment  of  the  nefarious  instruments 
of  opjjression,  the  Boards  of  Police  and  Sequestration,  too  fatally 
])rove  the  justice  of  my  assertion  ;  while  the  sanctioned  and  applaud- 
e,d  barbarities  of  the  sanguinary  Tari.eton,  indisputably  evince, 


tie  CORNWALLIS. 

that  «  Mercy,  the  first  attribute  of  Heaven,"  had  no  place  in  his 
heart."*  This  is  no  exaggerated  picture.  I  would  not  "unnecessarily 
excite  indignation.  My  only  wish  is,  to  present  your  enemy,  such  as 
he  was  at  the  period,  when  the  subjugation  of  America  was  the 
cherished  aim  of  Britain,  that  you  may  anticipate  what  you  may 
novv  expect,  when  he  approaches  our  coasts,  not  to  conciliate,  but 
destroy." 

In  the  life  of  General  Marion,  compiled  from  the 
notes  of  a  distinguished  Partisan,  Colonel  Peter  Horry, 
we  find  this  passage — "  It  has  been  said,  that  Lord 
Cornvvallis,  struck  with  the  bravery  of  De  Kalb,  gene- 
rously superintended  while  his  wounds  were  dressed 
by  his  own  Surgeon,  and  that,  after  his  death,  he  or- 
dered him  to  be  buried  with  the  honours  of  war. — 
British  officers  have  often  been  known  to  do  such 
noble  deeds  ;  but,  that  Lord  Cornwallis  was  capable  of 
acting  so  honourably,  is  very  doubtful.'''' \ 

If  we  seek  the  opinions  of  the  British  writers,  rela*- 
tive  to  his  conduct,  Tarleton  accuses  him  of  injustice, 
M'Kenzie  of  partiality  and  misrepresentat'ion,  Sted- 
man  of  impolicy  and  unnecessary  severity.  If  they 
who  partook  of  his  triumphs,  and  rejoiced  at  his  suc- 
cesses, thus  openly  censure,  how  can  we  withhold  the 
expression  of  our  resentments,  subjected  by  him  to 
every  misery  and  degradation  that  relentless  tyranny 
could  impose. 

*  No  censure,  no  expression  of  dissatisfaction  was  ever  used  to  check  the 
wanton  barbarities  of  Tarleton.  On  the  contrary,  in  a  letter  dated  Novem- 
ber 11th,  1780,  Lord  Cornwallis  says  to  him,  "  I  wish  you  could  get  three 
Legions,  and  divide  yourself  into  three  parts.     We  can  do  nothing  without 

you." 

t  Vide  Weems'  Life  of  Marion . 


CAMPBELL.  277 


LIEUT,  cot.  ARCHIBALD  CAMPBELL, 

71st   REGIMENT. 

Quitting  a  character  so  justly  reprobated  as  that  of 
Cornwallis,  it  is  truly  grateful  to  present,  by  way  of 
contrast,  that  of  Lieutenant  Colonel  Campbell,  of  the 
71st  British  Regiment.  A  conqueror  at  Savannah,  his 
immediate  care  was  to  soften  the  asperities  of  war, 
and  to  reconcile  to  his  equitable  government,  those 
who  had  submitted,  in  the  first  instance,  to  the  supe- 
riority of  his  arms.  Though  but  lately  released  from 
close  and  rigorous  confinement,  which  he  had  suffered 
in  consequence  of  indignities  offered  to  General 
Charles  Lee,  a  prisoner  at  New-York,  he  harboured 
no  resentments,  and  appeared  to  consider  his  sufferings 
rather  the  effect  of  necessity,  than  wilful  persecution. 
Oppression  was  foreign  to  his  nature,  and  incompatible 
with  his  practice.  He  made  a  proper  allowance  for 
an  attachment  to  cherished  principles,  nor  withheld 
his  applause  from  those  who  bravely  supported  them. 
He  used  no  threats  to  gain  proselytes,  no  artifice  to 
ensnare  them.  Such  of  the  inhabitants  as  voluntarily 
made  a  tender  of  service,  were  favourably  received ; 
but  he  was  ever  disinclined  to  invite  them  to  take  up 
arms  in  the  British  cause,  lest  in  the  fluctuating  coun- 
cils of  his  government,  he  should  lead  them  to  destruc- 
tion. He  had  too  frequently  seen  them  lavish  of  pro- 
fessions of  permanent  support,  leaving  their  deluded 
adherents  to  the  mercy  of  the  government,  which,  in 
evil  hour,  they  had  abandoned.  The  friends  of  our 
Independence  had  every  thing  to  dread  from  his  wis- 
dom and  humanity,  but  their  alarm  was  of  short  dura- 
tion. Lieutenant  Colonel  Campbell  had  too  nice  a 
sense  of  honour  to  be  made  the  instrument  of  injustice 
and  oppression,  and  he  was  speedily  called  on  to  relin- 


278  CAMPBELL. 

quish  his  command,  to  a  superior,  less  scrupulous,  and 
better  disposed  to  second  the  harsh  peasures  of  the 
Commander  in  Chief. 


LORD  RAWDON. 

I  HAVE  already,  in  detailing  particulars  relative  to 
the  murder  of  Colonel  Hayne,  said  so  much  t)f  Lord 
Rawdon,  that  it  may  appear  superfluous  to  bring  for- 
ward further  proof  of  that  unrelenting  severity,  that 
appears  never  to  have  been  satisfied  but  by  the  sacrifice 
of  its  object.  Executions  under  his  mandate  had 
become  so  frequent  in  Camden,  that  they  u^ere  regarded 
with  mute  astonishment.  If  words  found  utterance,  the 
inquiry  was,  not  "  ly/io,"  but  "  hoiv  many,  are  to  be 
hanged  to-day."  Of  his  humanity  towards  his  own 
troops,  and  particulaaly  Ms  own  countrymen,  an  accu- 
rate judgment  may  be  formed  from  the  extracts  of  his 
letter  to  Colonel  Rugely,  which  I  have  selected,  and 
which  will  immediately  follow.  But  before  they  are 
brought  into  view,  I  would  observe,  that  at  the  moment 
this  letter  was  written,  poor  Ireland,'^  the  most  op- 

*  The  Irish  nation  were,  ia  sentiment,  altogether  favourable  to  the  cause  of 
America.  In  the  year  1775,  when  I  was  removed  from  Westminster  School  to 
College,  I  remember,  that  in  a  debating  Society  at  Edinburgh,  it  was  proposed 
as  a  subject  for  discussion,  "  Whether  it  was  just,  wise,  or  practicable,  for 
America  to  resist  the  decrees  of  Great  Britain,"  a  Speaker,  who  appeared 
extremely  tenacious  of  the  authority  and  power  of  the  parent  state,  vehe- 
mently maintaining,  that  it  was  not  only  impolitic,  but  impossible  for  America, 
yet  in  her  infancy,  to  support  tlie  contest  with  the  slightest  prospect  of  success. 
Dr.  Drennan,  a  youthful  Irish  student,  exclaimed,  "  I  readily  admit  apart  of 
the  gentleman's  proposition,  but  deny  the  accuracy  of  the  conclusion  drawn 
from  it.  His  assertion  relative  to  the  infancy  of  America  is  undeniable ;  but 
it  may  well  be  compared  to  the  infancy  of  Hercules — since  secure  in  her  cra- 
dle, she  sees  the  approach  of  hostili'y  without  terror,  and  will  not  fail  to  crush 
the  vipers  sent  for  her  destruction,  by  an  unnatural  step  mother." 


RAWDON.  279 

pressed  nation  in  the  civilized  world,  began  not  only 
more  keenly  to  feel  the  injustice  of  Britain,  but  more 
openly  to  express  her  abhorrence  of  the  tyranny  im- 
posed upon  her.  America  offered  an  asylum  against 
the  evils  she  endured.  Nor  was  it  disregarded  by  her 
gallant  sons.  Many  adventurous  youths,  till  the  mo- 
ment should  arrive  when  a  struggle  for  freedom  could 
be  made  at  home,  inspired  by  the  most  exalted  feelings 
of  the  heart,  sought  our  shores  to  enrol  themselves 
under  the  standard  of  Liberty  ;  and  in  supporting  our 
cause,  none  were  more  distinguished.  In  the  North, 
the  gallant  Montgomery ^  the  Generals  Irvine,  Arm- 
strong, Moylan,  and  Walter  Steward,  obtained  the 
highest  reputation  for  zeal  and  intrepidity.  In  the 
South,  the  valour  of  Armstrong,  O^Neale,  Manning, 
and  Irvine  of  the  Legion,  merited,  and  were  rewarded 
by  universal  admiration  and  applause.  In  the  ranks  of 
our  armies  there  were  many  of  the  sons  of  Erin,  who 
felt  the  injuries  heaped  upon  us,  as  injuries  to  them- 
selves, and  fought  for  America  as  they  would  have 
fought  for  Ireland.  It  was  to  check  this  noble  spirit, 
to  extinguish  the  dawn  of  resistance  in  their  expanding 
views  of  the  rights  of  man,  that  Lord  Rawdon  issued 
his  sanguinary  orders.  They  might  have  i^oduced 
some  effect;  but  they  plainly  showed,  that  in  his  troops, 
generally,  he  had  no  confidence ;  and  that  with  his  own 
Regiment,  the  Volunteers  of  Ireland,  the  language  of 
the  lips  had  no  correspondence  with  the  emotions  of  the 
bosom ;  and  that  on  rejoicing  days,  while  peals  were 
fired,  and  the  air  resounded  with  loud  huzzas  for  the 
king,  their  hearts  were  with  the  cause  and  the  armies 
of  America. 


230  RAWDOliJ. 


EXTRACT  OF  A  LflTTBR  TO  COLONEL  RUGELy,  COMMANDING  THE 
BRITISH  MILITIA,  NJEAR  CAMDEN.* 

"  If  attachment  to  their  Sovereign  will  not  move  the  country  people 
to  check  a  crime  so  disastrous  to  the  service  (desertion)  it  must  be 
my  care  to  urge  them  to  their  duty,  as  good  subjects,  by  using  inva- 
riable severity  against  every  one  who  shall  show  so  criminal  a  neglect 
of  the  public  interest.  If  any  person  shall  meet  a  soldier,  straggling 
without  a  written  pass,  beyond  the  picquets,  and  shall  not  do  his 
utmost  to  secure  him,  or  shall  not  spread  an  alarm  for  that  purpose, 
or  if  &ny  person  shall  give  shelter  to  soldiers  straggling  as  above 
mentioned,  or  shall  serve  them  as  a  guide,  or  shall  furnish  them  with 
passes,  or  any  other  assistance,  the  persons  so  offending  may  assure 
themselves  of  rigorous  punishment,  or  by  whipping,  imprisonment, 
or  by  being  sent  to  serve  in  the  West  Indies,  according  as  I  shall 
think  the  degree  of  criminality  may  require  ;  for  I  have  ordered  that 
every  soldier  who  passes  the  picquet,  shall  submit  himself  to  be 
examined  by  any  militiaman  who  has  a  suspicion  of  him.  If  a  soldier, 
therefore,  attempts  to  escape  when  ordered  by  a  militiaman  to  stop, 
he  is  immediately  to  be  fired  on  as  a  deserter." 

And  then,  as  a  mark  of  peculiar  distinction,  he  adds, 

'^  I  will  give  ten  guineas ybr  the  head  of  any  deserter  belonging  to  the 
Volunteers  of  Ireland,  oxidjive  guineas  only,  if  he  be  brought  alive." 


GENERAL  WEBSTER. 

Among  the  British  officers  serving  in  the  South, 
tliere  was  certainly  no  one  who  possessed  so  just  a 
claim  to  celebrity  as  General  Webster.  To  consum- 
mate skill  and  intrepidity,  and  a  devotion  to  the  cause 
of  the  Monarch  whom  he  served  and  loved,  (a  trait  of 
character  which  gained  him  the  highest  applause  of  his 

"  Vide  Ramsay's  Revolution  of  South-Carolina,  vol.  2.  p.  133. 


WEBSTER.  281 

own  army)  he  united  a  generous  forbearance  and 
humanity  towards  such  of  his  enemies  as  fell  within 
the  influence  of  his  power,  as  secured  their  gratitude 
and  most  exalted  admiration.  Tarleton,  in  his  history 
of  the  Southern  Campaigns,  thus  briefly,  though  com- 
prehensively, notices  his  merits.  "  He  united  all  the 
virtues  of  civil  life,  to  the  gallantry  and  professional 
knowledge  of  a  soldier."  And  Lee,  under  the  im- 
pression of  sentiments  that  do  him  honour,  speaking  of 
his  untimely  fate,  says, — "  So  long  as  the  tenderest 
feelings  of  sorrow,  expressed  in  language  that  can  only 
flow  from  the  heart,  shall  be  admired.  Lord  Cornwallis, 
in  his  letter  to  the  afflicted  and  affectionate  parent  of 
the  departed  hero,  has  left  an  imperishable  monument 
to  his  fame." 

An  extract  of  this  letter  cannot  be  unacceptable  to 
the  heart  that  feels. 

"  It  gives  me  great  concern  to  undertake  a  task  which  is  not  only 
a  bitter  renewal  of  my  own  grief,  but  must  be  a  violent  shock  to  an 
affectionate  parent.  You  have  for  your  support  the  assistance  of 
religion,  good  sense,  and  the  experience  of  the  uncertainty  of  human 
happiness.  You  have  for  your  satisfaction,  that  your  son  fell  nobly 
in  the  cause  of  his  country,  honoured  and  lamented  by  all  his  fellow 
soldiers ;  that  he  led  a  life  of  houour  and  virtue,  which  must  secure  to 
him  everlasting  happiness. 

"  When  the  keen  sensibilities  of  the  passions  begin  to  subside, 

these  considerations  will  give  you  real  comfort.     That  the  Almighty 

may  give  you  fortitude  to  bear  this  severest  of  strokes,  is  the  earnest 

wish  of  your  companion  in  affliction. 

"  Cornwallis." 

He  further  enumerates  his  services  throughout  the 
war,  proving  him  at  all  times,  and  in  every  situation, 
where  an  opportunity  was  offered  to  display  his  talents 
or  his  virtues,  a  distinguished  commander  and  exem- 
plary man. 

I  have  but  little  to  add ;  but  what  I  have  to  say  is  so 
much  to  his  credit,  that  it  would  be  unpardonable  to 

36 


282  WEBSTER. 

withhold  it.  Encamped,  during  the  siege  of  Charles- 
ton, at  Brabant's,  the  seat  of  the  late  Bishop  Smith, 
where  many  of  the  Whig  Ladies,  whose  friends  were 
serving  within  the  garrison,  had  retired  for  security,  his 
attentions  to  them  were  uniformly  polite  and  generous; 
he  was  liberal  in  the  offer  of  service,  and  afforded 
them  security  and  protection  from  the  insults  and  op- 
pression to  which  unlimited  license  was  allowed  in 
almost  every  other  quarter.  And  it  is  highly  to  his 
honour,  that  while  in  mere  wantonness  the  Temples  of 
God  were  elsewhere  either  levelled  to  the  dust,  or 
given  up  to  devouring  flames,  that  he  caused  a  Church 
in  the  neighbourhood,  the  destruction  of  which  had 
already  commenced,  to  be  rebuilt,  and  guarded  by  the 
very  men  whose  aim  was  to  render  it  a  mass  of  ruins. 


COLONEL  SMALL. 

It  would  be  superfluous  to  detail  particular  instan- 
ces of  the  exemplary  good  conduct  of  this  gallant 
soldier,  whose  constant  aim  was  to  soothe  the  sorrows 
of  the  afflicted,  and  to  give  exercise  to  the  beneficence 
of  a  generous  heart. 

There  was  no  measure  adopted  by  the  British  autho- 
rities, that  appeared  more  irksome  and  oppressive,  than 
that  of  billeting  their  officers  upon  the  unfortunates, 
to  whom,  under  the  capitulation  of  Charleston,  was 
guaranteed  the  uninterrupted  possession  of  their  pro- 
perty. Yet,  such  was  the  known  character  of  Colonel 
Small,  that  a  billet  presented  by  him  was  regarded  as 
a  distinguished  mark  of  favour  ;  security  from  insult, 
and  from  every  species  of  imposition,  being  insepa- 
rable from  his  presence.  What  must  have  been  the 
delightful  sensations  of  his  heart,  who,  idolized  by  his 


SMALL.  283 

own  troops,  saw  himself,  at  the  same  time,  courted  as 
a  friend,  and  reverenced  as  a  protector,  by  the  helpless 
families  of  the  enemy,  with  whom  he  contended  ? 
The  sympathies  of  his  benevolence  shielded  them  from 
harm,  and  was  repaid  with  tenfold  gratitude.  He 
assuaged  their  sufferings  and  relieved  their  wants  ;  and 
every  prayer  which  they  offered  to  Heaven,  was  min- 
gled with  ardent  solicitations  for  blessings  on  his  head. 

Towards  the  conclusion  of  the  war.  Colonel  Small 
expressing  a  wish  to  meet  with  General  St.  Clair  of 
the  American  army,  the  friend  and  companion  of  his 
early  years,  a  flag  of  truce  was  immediately  sent  by 
General  Greene,  with  an  invitation  to  come  within  our 
lines,  and  remain  at  his  option  therein;  free  from  every 
restriction.  It  was  accepted,  and  such  attentions  were 
paid  to  him,  not  only  by  the  Commander  in  Chief,  but 
by  all  the  superior  officers  of  the  army,  as  must  have 
been  highly  grateful  to  him,  since  it  not  only  evinced 
their  gratitude,  but  exalted  opinion  also  of  the  liberal 
and  generous  conduct  that  excited  it. 

Paying  a  visit  to  our  Ambassador,  Major  Thomas 
Pinckney,  shortly  after  his  establishment  in  London,  it 
was  my  good  fortune  to  meet  with  Colonel  Small, 
who,  in  the  course  of  conversation,  said,  "  I  have  been 
sitting  this  morning  to  Colonel  Trumbull  for  my  por- 
trait, he  having  done  me  the  honour  to  place  me  in  a 
very  conspicuous  sitiuation  in  his  admirable  represen- 
tation of  the  battle  of  Bunker's  Hill.  But  his  polite- 
ness far  exceeds  my  claim  to  merit.  He  has  exhibited 
me  as  turning  aside  the  bayonet  aimed  by  a  grenadier 
at  the  breast  of  General  Warren.  I  would  certainly 
have  saved  his  life,  had  it  been  in  my  power  to  do  so, 
but  when  I  reached  the  spot  on  which  his  body  lay, 
the  spark  of  life  was  already  extinguished.  It  would 
have  been  a  tribute  due  to  his  virtues  and  to  his  gal- 
lantry, and  to  me  a  sacred  duty,  since  I  am  well 
apprized,   that   when  at  a  particular   period   of  the 


284  SMALL. 

action,  I  was  left  alone,  and  exposed  to  the  fire  of  the 
whole  American  line,  my  old  friend,  Putnam,  saved  my 
life  by  calling  aloud,  'kill  as  many  as  you  can,  but 
spare  Small;'  and  that  he  actually  turned  aside  muskets 
that  were  aimed  for  my  destruction." 

When  the  attack  was  made  some  years  since  on  the 
military  reputation  of  General  Putnam,  I  communi- 
cated these  circumstances  to  my  friend.  Major  Jackson, 
of  Philadelphia,  who  published  them  as  a  proof  of  its 
illiberality,  since  it  is  not  possible  to  suppose  that  the 
soldier,  who  with  such  anxious  solicitude  endeavoured 
to  screen  from  harm  the  life  of  a  generous  enemy, 
could,  from  apprehension  of  his  own  personal  safety, 
in  the  manner  insinuated,  have  swerved  from  his  duty, 
and  must  have  fixed  a  stigma  on  the  reputation  of  the 
Commander  in  Chief,  for  the  want  of  that  discernment 
universally  attributed  to  him,  that  he  continued  to  the 
last  hour  of  the  war  to  bestow  his  entire  confidence  on 
one,  who  in  the  very  dawn  of  hostility  had  proved 
himself  unworthy  of  it. 


COLONEL  TARLETON. 

With  every  disposition  to  moderation  and  forbear- 
ance, it  is  difjficlt  to  speak  with  temper  of  a  man, 
whose  invariable  aim  was  to  destroy,  and  whose  re- 
sentments were  only  to  be  appeased  by  an  unceasing 
effusion  of  blood.  Acting  in  strict  conformity  with 
his  declared  opinion,* — "  That  severity  alone  could 
effect  the  establishment  of  regal  authority  in  America," 
the  bounds  of  humanity  were  overleapt.  The  des- 
truction of  property  scarcely  merited  notice,  where 
the  goadings  of  personal  insult  were  so  ardently  che- 

*  Ramsay,  vol.  2,  p.  156. 


TARLETON.  285 

rished,  and  death  made  the  primary  object  of  enter- 
prise. It  is  no  exaggeration  to  say,  that  wheresoever 
the  influences  of  Tarleton  extended,  with  scarcely  an 
exception,  his  progress  might  be  traced  by  merciless 
severity.  Contem{)late  the  destruction,  the  desolation 
of  the  plantation  of  Colonel  Hill,  in  the  New  Acqui-* 
sition,  his  flourishing  iron  works,  mills,  dwelling  house, 
buildings,  of  every  description,  exhibiting  a  frightful 
scene  of  universal  ruin.  His  wife  and  children  sub- 
jected to  the  inclemency  of  an  insalubrious  climate, 
without  shelter,  food,  or  raiment.  See  the  wanton 
exercise  of  his  authority^  hanging,  on  the  most  trivial 
pretexts,  men  of  the  first  respectability,  exemplified  in 
the  execution  of  Mr.  Johnston,  an  upright  and  intelli- 
gent Magistrate.!  Witness  the  slaughter  of  the  unre- 
sisting force  of  Colonel  Buford,t  crying  out  for  quarter; 
and  finally  view  him,  after  partaking  of  the  hospitality 
of  the  widow  of  General  Richardson,  not  only  plun- 
dering her  property,  and  burning  her  house,  but 
degrading  manhood,  by  spurning  with  his  foot  this 
helpless  female,  even  on  the  verge  of  the  grave  of  Ijer 
husband,  who,  in  palliation  of  his  enormities,  he  pre- 
tended to  believe  still  in  arms. 

Great,  but  certainly  unmerited  credit  has  been  given 
to  Tarleton,  for  the  achievement  of  deeds  of  hardy 
enterprise.  Where  celerity  of  movement  was  neces- 
sary to  secure  victory,  he  is  clearly  entitled  to  unqua- 
lified praise.  In  reaping  all  the  fruits  resulting  from 
an  attack  by  surprise,  he  was  judicious  in  his  arrange- 
ments, and  prompt  in  their  execution.  But,  where 
can  it  be  said  that  he  ever  encountered  opposition  that 

'  Ramsay,  vol.  2,  p.  159.  t  p.  160. 

t  An  officer  of  our  army,  whose  accuracy  it  is  impossible  for  me  to  doubt 
assured  me  that*  he  visited  the  Hospital  at  the  VVajisaws,  in  which  the  wounded 
were  left,  that  many  of  them  were  in  a  state  of  perfect  nakedness,  having  been 
stripped  of  every  article  of  clothing,  and  that  the  wounds  inflicted,  amounted 
on  an  average  to  sixteen  to  each  individual. 


286  TARLETON. 

he  did  not  experience  discomfiture.  At  Monk's  Cor- 
ner and  Laneau's  Ferry,  he  was  actually  in  possession 
of  his  adversary's  camp,  before  they  were  apprized  of 
his  approach  ;  and  meeting  but  feeble  resistance,  was 
completely  triumphant.  At  the  defeat  of  Buford,  the 
panic  that  deprived  both  the  commander  and  his  forces 
of  every  power  of  exertion,  precluded  the  possibility 
of  resistance,  and  they  were  literally  butchered  almost 
to  a  man.  Again,  at  Fishing  Creek,  unexpectedly 
appearing,  and  by  an  impetuous  attack  bearing  down 
the  opposition  made  by  a  few  individuals,  commanded 
by  Captain  Taylor  of  Columbia,*  he  gained  new  lau- 
rels as  a  soldier  of  enterprise,  but  additional  disgrace 
as  a  man,  recording  his  triumph  in  blood.  Here  ended 
the  successes  of  Tarleton.  The  energies  which  dis- 
tinguished his  early  career,  were  never  again  exhibited. 

'  I  wished  to  have  spoken  more  particularly  in  this  work  of  the  services  ot 
this  gallant  soldier  and  determined  Whig— they  richly  merited  praise,  and  I 
would  gladly  have  bestowed  it,  but  my  efforts  to  be  made  acquainted  with  the 
eventful  scenes  of  his  life  have  proved  abortive,  and  it  is  denied  me  to  record 
them  Lord  Cornwallis  very  quickly  perceived  both  the  abilities  and  exten- 
sive^nflueuce  of  Captain  Tavlor,  and  so  far  departed  from  the  usual  austerity 
of  character,  as  to  seek  his  society,  and  condescend  to  argue  with  him  on 
the  impolicy  and  inutility  of  resistance,  offering  him  a  carte  blanche  for  military 
promotion  and  pecuniary  emolument,  would  he  but  consent  tojoin  the  British 
Standard,  and  nid  the  establishment  of  the  Royal  authority.  The  proposition 
was  at  once  rejected  ;  and  Sumter  appearing  in  arms  in  support  of  the  cause 
oi  Liberty,  Captain  Taylor,  with  enthusiastic  ardour,  joined  him.  The  resis- 
tance made  at  Fishing  Creek,  proceeded  almost  altogether  from  Captain  Tay- 
lor's company,  but  was  of  little  avail,  and  both  himself  and  brother  were  made 
prisoners.  While  conducting  under  a  guard  of  Cavalry  to  the  British  Head- 
Quarters,  perceiving  that  the  dragoons  were  much  intoxicated,  and  those  near 
them  particularly  so,  Captain  Taylor  proposed  to  his  relative,  that  when  they 
should  arrive  at  a  part  of  the  road  thickly  wooded,  where  the  pursuit  of  cavalry 
would  be  unavailing,  that  on  a  signal  agreed  on,  they  should  dash  into  the 
thickets  on  opposite  sides,  and  make  an  effort  for  liberty.  The  scheme  was 
agreed  to,  and  carried  into  effect  with  the  happiest  success.  Both  escaped 
uninjured.  At  Blackstock-Hill,  Captain  Taylor  ac(}uired  increase  of  military 
reputation,  but  lost  his  gallant  brother,  who  fell  in  the  action.  His  zeal  never 
knew  abatement  during  the  continuance  of  the  war  ;  and  to  the  present  day,  as 
a  distinguished  Patriot,  he  possesses  the  most  gratifying  of  all  rewards,  the  es- 
teem and  confidence  of  his  country. 


TARLETON.  287 

Foiled  by  Marion  at  every  point,  and  incessantly 
harassed  by  him,  while  the  combat  which  he  eagerly 
sought  for  was  declined,  he  indignantly  exclaimed, 
"  Since  the  Fox  (meaning  Marion)  avoids  me,  I  will 
seek  the  Old  Cock  (Sumter.)  He,  I  know,  will  fight, 
and  shall  pay  the  penalty  for  all  the  vexations  I  have 
suffered  from  his  wily  rival."  The  result  of  his  brava- 
does is  well  known.  Sumter  beat  him  at  Blackstock 
Hill,  Davie  at  Charlotte,  Lee  in  every  encounter 
where  there  was  a  contention  for  superiority  ;  and 
Washington,  at  the  Cowpens,  put  to  rest  the  exagge- 
rated opinions  of  his  prowess  and  invincibility,  never 
to  be  revived  again. 

Is  it  not  wonderful  that  this  man,  so  frequently  in- 
dulging his  passions  without  restraint,  and  blotting  out 
the  fair  characters  of  victory  by  unexampled  severities, 
could  occasionally  exhibit  a41  the  mildness  and  urbanity 
that  might  be  expected  from  a  perfect  and  well-bred 
gentleman,  a  tenderness  of  feeling,  and  liberality  of 
soul,  that  do  him  the  highest  honour. 

There  were  a  circle  of  ladies  assembled,  during  the 
siege  of  Charleston,  at  Brabant's,  the  seat  of  Bishop 
Smith,  near  which  Colonel  Tarleton  had  fixed  his 
quarters.  The  delicacy  of  his  attentions  to  them  could 
not  be  surpassed;  and  they  with  unanimity  declare, 
that  they  never  witnessed  any  act  proceeding  from  his 
orders,  that  did  not  entitle  him  to  their  respect  and 
gratitude. 

When  our  gallant  countryman.  Major  Pinckney, 
received  the  wound  at  Gates'  defeat,  which  placed 
him  in  the  hands  of  the  enemy,  the  generous  feelings 
of  an  old  school-fellow,  Captain  Charles  Barrington 
M'Kenzie  of  the  71st  British  Regiment,  under  the 
blessing  of  Heaven,  preserved  his  valuable  life.  Ap- 
plying to  Tarleton  for  his  interposition  in  behalf  of  his 
suffering  friend,  he  immediately  received  an  order  to 
call  from  the  field  his  Surgeon,  whose  early  attention 


288  TARLETON. 

in  all  probability,  prevented  the  catastrophe  which 
befel  General  Porterfield  and  other  officers,  whose 
wounds  not  being  dressed  for  thirty-six  hours,  from 
exhaustion  and  loss  of  blood,  expired.  The  character 
of  the  wounded  prisoner  had  excited  a  deep  interest 
in  his  bosom.  The  ferocity  of  his  temper  was  laid 
aside.  He  ordered,  that  every  attention  should  be 
paid  him,  that  could  mitigate  the  severity  of  his 
wound — supplied  him  amply  with  port  wine,  consi- 
dered essential  to  prevent  the  spasms  that  threatened 
his  life — tendered  the  restoration  of  the  horses  recently 
impressed  from  his  family  at  Fort  Motte — and  urged 
with  the  generous  spirit  of  a  soldier,  the  free  and 
unlimited  use  of  his  purse.  I  could  pardon  him  a 
thousand  errors  for  this  emanation  of  generous  sym- 
pathy. Such  attentions  were  received  with  the  gra- 
titude they  were  well  calcnlated  to  excite.  The  sin- 
cerest  acknowledgements  were  expressed  for  all — 
though  neither  the  horses  nor  purse  were  accepted. 
This  gave  an  opportunity  to  M'Kenzie,  to  display  a 
trait  of  chivalric  gallantry  that  cannot  be  too  much 
admired.  "  Give  me  his  charger,  then  ;"  he  feelingly 
exclaimed,  "  it  shall  never  be  said,  that  the  horse  that 
carried  Tom  Pinckney,  was  ever  employed  against 
the  friends  and  the  cause  that  were  dear  to  him." 


BENEDICT  ARNOLD. 

That  treachery  creates  its  own  punisliment,  and  to 
the  detestation  of  the  world  adds,  the  inward  agony 
"  that  passeth  show,"  is  strikingly  exemplified  in  the 
history  of  the  apostate  Arnold.  What  were  the  results 
of  his  desertion  ?  The  fair  fame  acquired  by  his  early 
exertions,  as  a  Patriot  soldier,  was  blasted.  Children 
that  had  learnt  to   lisp  his  deeds  of  gallantry,  now 


ARNOLD.  289 

shuddered  with  abhorrence  at  his  name.     Execrated 
by  his  former  friends,  despised  by  his  new  associates, 
proscribed  by  his  country,  reluctantly  obeyed,  and  by 
the  meanest  sentinel  held  in  supreme  contempt,  his  life 
was  a  constant  scene  of  apprehension,  misery,  and 
remorse.     A  cloud  hung  over  his  fortunes  that  shaded 
his  countenance  with  the  gloom  of  despair,  and  betray- 
ed the  increasing  agonies  of  his  guilty  heart.     That- 
such  was  the  state  of  his  mind  is  clear,  from  his  anxiety 
to  learn  from  others,  what  they  supposed  his  fate  would 
be  should   he  fall  into  the  hands  of  his  countrymen. 
While  commanding  the  predatory  expedition  on  the 
shores  of  Virginia,  a  service  peculiarly  suited  to  his 
character,  it  is  stated,  that  on  one  occasion,  when  some 
danger  appeared  of  his  being  taken,  he  asked  an  officer 
near  him, — "  What  treatment  think  you.  Sir,  am  I  to 
look  for  should  the  rebels  make  me  their  prisoner." 
•'  I  have  no  doubt,"  replied  the  officer,  "  though  my 
frankness  may  offend,  but  that  they  will  cut  off  the  leg 
that  was  wounded  in  storming  the  British  Lines  at 
Saratoga,  and  bury  it  with  the   honours  of  war,  but 
having  no  respect  for  the  rest  of  your  body,  they  will 
gibbet  it."     The  contempt  that  followed  him  through 
life,  is  further  illustrated  by  the  speech  of  the  present 
Lord  Lauderdale,  who,  perceiving  Arnold  on  the  right 
hand  of  the  King,  and  near  his  person,  as  he  addressed 
his  Parliament,  declared,  on  his  return  to  the  Com- 
mons, "  that  however  gracious  the  language  he  had 
heard  from  the  throne,  his  indignation  could  not  but 
be  highly  excited,  beholding,  as  he  had  done,  his  Ma- 
jesty supported  by  a  traitor."  And  on  another  occasion, 
Lord  Surry,  since  Duke  of  Norfolk,  rising  to  speak  in 
the  House  of  Commons,  and  perceiving  Arnold  in  the 
gallery,  sat  down  with  precipitation,  exclaiming,  "  1 
will  not  speak  while  that  man  (pointing  to  him)  is  in 
the  House."     I  myself  witnessed  a  renin rkably  strong 

37 


290  ARNOLD. 

proof  of  it.  Sitting  in  a  Coffee-house  at  Cowes,  in 
1792,  with  a  British  officer  of  high  distinction,  he  pur- 
posely turned  the  conversation  on  the  blessings  of  the 
Americans,  declaring  with  earnestness,  that  he  believ- 
ed them  happier,  and  more  to  be  envied  than  any  peo- 
ple in  the  world.  A  stranger  who  sat  near,  and  who 
appeared  intent  on  these  encomiums,  rose  hastily  and 
left  the  room,  when  my  companion  said,  "  I  perceive 
that  you  are  unacquainted  with  the  traitor,  once  the 
pride  of  your  army;  the  man  who  has  just  retired  is 
Benedict  Arnold.  The  language  which  I  used  must 
have  appeared  extravagant.  I  spoke  of  America  with 
enthusiasm,  to  make  him  feel  his  degradation,  as  no 
one,  in  my  opinion,  so  highly  merits  execration.'' 
Well  then  may  we  say  to  fame, 

"  Here  and  there  leave  a  blank  in  the  page, 
"  To  record  the  fair  deeds  of  his  youth. 
"  When  you  si)eak  of  the  deeds  of  his  age, 
"  Leave  a  blank  for  his  honour  and  truth." 

Sir  C.  H.  Williams 

Or  Still  more  forcibly  to  speak  our  abhorrence, 

*'  Let  ignominy  brand  his  hated  name, 

"  Let  modest  matrons  at  its  mention  start, 

"  And  blushing  virgins,  when  they  read  our  annals, 

"  Skip  o'er  the  guilty  page  that  hold  his  legend, 

"  And  blots  the  noble  work."  Shakspeare. 

It  must  ever  be  lamented,  that  while  so  generous 
and  high  spirited  a  soldier  as  Andre  paid  the  penalty 
of  the  treason,  the  traitor  should  live  to  enjoy  pecu- 
niary recompense  and  command.  I  cannot  say  honour, 
for  from  the  moment  of  his  apostacy,  he  sunk  into  the 
most  profound  abyss  of  infamy.  The  very  services 
required  of  him,  showed  the  opinion  of  the  Com- 
mander in  Chief.  What  was  the  object  in  Virginia? 
Plunder.  What  at  New-London  ?  Destruction.  He 
was  an  adept  at  both,  and  failed  not  to  add  to  the 


ARNOLD.  291 

black  catalogue  of  his  former  atrocities.  To  finish  the 
climax  of  iniquity,  as  if  insensible  to  the  results  con- 
templated by  his  treason,  the  destruction  of  the  liber- 
ties of  his  country,  and  of  the  friends  who  had  fought 
by  his  side,  he  has  presumed  to  say, — "  That  as  Major 
Andre  came  within  the  American  posts  at  his  request, 
he  ought  also,  under  the  same  sanction,  to  have  been 
allowed  to  return  in  safety."  In  other  words ;  after 
having  obtained  every  possible  information  as  to  our 
strength  and  resources,  and  having  learnt  the  points  at 
which  West  Point  was  most  assailable,  that  he  should 
have  been  allowed  to  communicate  all  this  to  an  active 
enemy,  prepared  to  take  advantage  of  it.  Such  is  his 
reasoning.  He  then  proceeds  to  threats.  "  I  have 
further  to  observe,  that  forty  gentlemen,  inhabitants  of 
South-Carolina,  have  justly  forfeited  their  lives,  which 
have  hitherto  been  spared,  through  the  clemency  of  his 
Excellency  Sir  Henry  Clinton,  who  cannot,  with  pro- 
priety, extend  his  mercy  to  them  any  longer,  if  Major 
Andre  suffers,  which  will  open  a  scene  of  blood  at 
which  humanity  will  revolt."  It  is  well  known  that 
the  falsity  of  the  accusation  against  these  patriotic 
citizens  was  so  gross,  that  the  British  never  attempted 
to  support  it.  Had  but  a  shadow  of  reason  appeared 
to  countenance  it,  there  is  no  doubt  but  that  severity 
would  have  been  pushed  to  its  utmost  limit. 


MAJOR  ANDRE. 

It  is  certainly  a  very  singular  circumstance,  that 
Andre  should,  in  a  very  satirical  Poem,  have  foretold 
his  own  fate.  It  was  called  the  "  Cow  Chace,^^  and  was 
published  by  Rivington,  at  New-York,  in  consequence 


29^  AxNDRE. 

of  the  failure  of  an  expedition  undertaken  by  Wayne 
for  the  purpose  of  collecting  cattle.  Great  liberties  are 
taken  with  the  American  officers  employed  on  the 
occasion.     With 

"  Harry  Lee  and  his  Dragoons,  and  Proctor  with  his  cannon." 

but  the  point  of  his  irony  seemed  particularly  aimed 
at  Wayne,  whose  entire  baggage,  he  asserts,  was  taken, 
containing 

"  His  Congress  dollars,  and  his  prog, 
'■  His  military  speeches : 
"  His  cornstalk  whiskey  for  his  grog, 
"  Black  stockings  and  blue  breeches. 

And  concludes  by  observing,  that  it  is  necessary  to 
check  the  current  of  satire, 

"  Lest  the  same  warriodrover  Wayne, 
"  Should  catch — and  hang  the  Poet." 

He  was  actually  taken  by  a  party  from  the  division 
of  the  army  immediately  under  the  command  of  Wayne. 


CAPTORS  OF  ANDRE. 

1  SHALL  not  further  notice  the  attempt  to  take  from 
the  captors  of  Major  Andre,  the  credit  so  justly  ac- 
quired by  their  refusing  the  bribes  which  he  offered, 
than  to  express  my  satisfaction  at  its  complete  failure. 
To  deprive  such  men  of  honours,  that  not  only  estab- 
lished their  fame,  but  increased  the  reputation  of  their 
country,  merely  on  report,  and  the  suggestions  of  the 
prisoner,  is,  indeed,  as  has  been  forcibly  said, — "  To 
tear  the  fairest  leaf  from  our  history."     But  after  the 


CAPTORS  OP  ANDRE.  293 

insult  offered  to  public  sentiment,  by  the  attempt  to  in- 
sinuate that  Putnam  wanted  courage;  that  the  veteran, 
who  through  a  long  course  of  service,  and  to  his  last 
hour  possessed  the  entire  confidence  of  the  Father  of 
his  country,  whose  achievements  the  painter  and  his- 
torian have  delighted  to  celebrate,  shrunk  from  his 
duty,  we  may  well  say, 

"  What  worth  so  strong 
"  Can  tie  the  gall  up  in  the  slanderous  tongue."     Shakspeark. 

Fascinated  by  the  manners  and  character  of  Major 
Andre,  and  particularly  by  the  firmness  he  displayed,  it 
is  evident  that  Major  Talmadge  was  prepared  to 
believe  whatever  he  might  assert ;  for  he  stands  too 
high  in  the  estimation  of  his  brother  ofiicers,  and  of 
the  community,  to  be  suspected  of  a  desire  to  depre- 
ciate the  merits  of  men  to  whom  honour  is  due.  But 
why  such  delay — why  suffer  medals  to  be  delivered  to 
th^in  in  presence  of  the  army,  in  testimony  oi fidelity. 
Why  suffer  Congress  to  settle  a  pension  on  each,  re- 
citing in  their  journals,  "  In  consequence  of  their  virtue 
in  refusing  a  large  sum  offered  to  them  by  Major 
Andre,  as  a  bribe  to  permit  him  to  escape ;"  and  then, 
after  a  lapse  of  37  years,  assert,  "  that  had  the  bribe 
been  higher,  the  men  possessing  the  blessings  of  their 
country,  would  have  been  stigmatised  by  its  curses." 
An  extract  of  a  letter  from  General  Hamilton,  in  1780, 
to  Colonel  Sears,  of  Boston,  settles  the  point  to  my 
satisfaction.  He  says,  "  to  the  conduct  of  Arnold,  that 
of  the  captors  of  Andre  forms  a  striking  contrast.  He 
tempted  their  integrity  with  the  offer  of  his  watch,  his 
horse,  and  any  sum  of  money  they  should  name.  They 
rejected  his  offers  with  indignation;  and  the  gold 
which  could  seduce  a  man,  high  in  the  esteem  and 
confidence  of  his  country,  who  had  the  remembrance 
of  past  exploits,  the  motives  of  present  reputation  and 
future  glory  to  prop  his  integrity,  had  no  charms  for 


294  CAPTORS  OF  ANDRE. 

three  simple  countrymen,  leaning  only  on  their  virtue 
and  a  sense  of  their  duty."  While  Arnold  is  handed 
down  with  execration  to  future  times,  posterity  will 
repeat  with  reverence  the  name  of  Van  Wert,  Pauld- 
ing, and  Williams. 

To  commemorate  the  capture  of  Major  Andre, 
Adjutant  General  of  the  British  army,  Congress  or- 
dered a  Medal  to  be  struck,  highly  flattering  to  the 
patriotic  virtue  of  the  soldiers  who  arrested  him : 

Device. — A  Shield. 
Legend. — Fidelity. 
Reverse. — A  Wreath. 
Legend. — Vincit  Amor  Patri^. 


*«|fiy»#i(j^5ii^»|lr«fa-^^^^  iiSlillk 


COMPARATIVE  SUFFERING  OF  THE  CONTENDING 
ARMIES. 


Before  I  make  a  comparison  relative  to  the  degrees 
of  calamitous  suffering  experienced  by  the  contending 
armies,  I  would  briefly  contrast  their  situation  at  the 
commencement  of  hostilities,  when  candour  will  not 
hesitate  to  pronouce,  that  every  advantage  was  on  the 
side  of  the  British  forces.  Nor  would  it  surprise, 
when  my  statement  is  brought  to  a  conclusion,  that 
my  reader  should  accord  with  the  opinion  of  a  late 
writer,  and  exclaim,  "  How  much  must  we  ever  ad- 
mire the  constancy  and  heroism  of  that  band,  whom 
defeat  could  not  conquer,  or  calamity  subdue — who 
rallied  in  the  face  of  adverse  fortune,  and  found  a 
noble  compensation  for  her  reverses  in  the  sacredness 
of  that  cause  to  which  they  had  offered  up  the  libation 
of  their  blood,  and  the  tribute  of  their  lives.  A  cause 
on  which  they  had  conferred  an  unfading  splendour  by 
the  practice,  of  more  than  the  courtesies  of  civilized 
warfare,  in  the  midst  of  provocations,  which  would 
have  justified  a  retaliation  full,  sanguinary,  and  ex- 
terminating." 

The  invaders  approached  our  coasts  prepared  at  all 
points  for  conquest.  Attached  by  the  tenderest  ties  of 
affection  and  consanguinity  to  the  Parent  State,  the 
people  of  America  had  indulged  the  delusive  idea, 
that  a  few  commercial  restrictions,  aided  by  the  justice 
of  their  claims,  and  humility  with  v;hich  they  were 
offered  to  the  throne,  would  speedily  effect  a  recon- 


296  COMPARATIVE  SUFFERING  OF 

ciliation  with  it.  An  appeal  to  arms  had  never  been 
seriously  contemplated, — no  preparation  had  been 
made  for  defence, — and  an  absolute  want  of  every 
military  implement,  of  ammunition,  troops,  and  money, 
prevailed  throughout  the  continent,  when  the  peace- 
able inhabitants  beheld  themselves  invaded  by  the 
hostile  armies  of  a  nation,  according  to  the  prejudice 
of  long  cherished  opinion,  the  most  powerful  and 
bravest  in  the  world. 

While  the  distresses  experienced  were  fully  propor- 
tioned to  the  extent  of  the  delusion,  they  produced  the 
advantage  of  rendering  the  firmness  of  the  American 
character  conspicuously  eminent.  The  rich  contri- 
buted their  fortunes  for  the  support  of  the  war — the 
enlightened  their  abilities,  to  fix  the  wavering,  con- 
vince the  unfriendly,  and  give  unanimity  to  all.  A 
general  conformity  of  opinion,  with  regard  to  the 
necessity  of  opposition,  was  the  immediate  conse- 
quence. Every  idea  of  personal  danger  or  incon- 
venience, was  lost  in  the  desire  of  contributing  to  the 
public  weal.  The  spirit  of  enterprise  was  universal — 
it  nerved  every  arm,  and  animated  every  bosom.  Old 
age  forgot  its  weakness — decrepitude  its  infirmities— 
the  levities  of  youth  were  laid  aside,  and  the  only 
contention  was,  who  should  be  foremost  in  the  career 
of  glory — who  should  render  the  most  essential  ser- 
vices to  his  country.  These  circumstances  premised, 
we  can  more  justly  estimate  the  virtues  and  sufferings 
of  the  hostile  armies  contending  for  superiority. 

Lord  Cornwallis,  in  a  letter  to  Lord  George  Ger- 
maine,  giving  an  account  of  the  battle  of  Guilford, 
says,  "  The  conduct  and  actions  of  the  officers  and 
soldiers  that  compose  this  little  army,  will  do  more 
justice  to  their  merit,  than  I  can  do  by  words.  Their 
persevering  intrepidity  in  action,  their  invincible 
patience  in  the  hardships  and  fatigues  of  a  march  of 
above  six  hundred  miles,  in  which  they  forded  several 


THE  CONTENDING  ARMIES. 

lars;e  rivers  and  numberless  creeks,  many  of  which 
would  be  reckoned  large  rivers  in  any  other  country  in 
the  world,  without  tents  or  covering  against  the  cli- 
mate, and  often  without  provisions,  will  sufficiently 
manifest  their  ardent  zeal  for  the  honour  and  interest 
of  their  Sovereign  and  country." 

If  a  patient  endurance  of  privations  and  difficulties, 
such  as  are  here  mentioned,  give  claim  to  distinction, 
how  pre-eminently  superior  must  we  consider  the  me- 
rits of  the  Continental  Soldiers,  contending  without  a 
murmur,  through  a  long  course  of  service,  against  the 
accumulated  miseries  of  famine,  nakedness  and  dis- 
ease. The  British,  though  occasionally  restricted  in 
the  indulgence  of  their  ai)petites,  and  scantily  supplied 
with  food,  were  abundantly  furnished  with  every  neces- 
sary article  of  clothing,  were  well  shod,  enjoyed  an 
ample  supply  of  salt  and  liquor,  when  engaged  in 
active  service  ;  and  in  sickness,  were  liberally  sup- 
ported with  wine,  medicine,  and  every  comfort  that 
could  mitigate  the  severity  of  disease.  Their  arms 
and  accoutrements  were  perfect,  and  ammunition  so 
abundant,  that  no  soldier  carried  less  than  thirty-six 
rounds  ;  and  when  in  expectation  of  battle,  each  indi- 
vidual was  accommodated  with  a  double  supply.  On 
the  other  hand,  the  Continental  Troops,  exposed  to 
every  inclemency  of  weather,  without  one  comfortable 
article  of  clothing,  without  shoes,  without  blankets, 
without  salt,  liquor,  or  medicine,  poorly  fed,  badly 
armed,  and  scantily  furnished  with  ammunition,  could 
alone  support  the  severity  of  their  trials,  by  the  steadi- 
ness of  their  principles,  and  perfect  conviction  of  the 
justice  of  the  cause  in  which  they  fought.  Their  zeal 
too  acquired  an  energy  which  danger  seemed  only  to 
improve  ;  and  from  adversity  they  derived  new  honour 
by  the  inflexible  firmness  with  which  they  met  its 
severest  trials.  This  is  no  delusive  representation  ! 
With  less  devotion  to  their  cherished  creed,  "  Or  Death, 

f?8 


29n  COMPARATIVE  SUFFERING  OF 

or  Liberty, ^^  nature  must  have  sunk  under  the  oppres- 
sion of  calamity.  Let  us  for  a  moment  more  parti- 
cularly view  the  miseries  to  which  they  were  exposed  I 
When  on  a  march,,  from  the  want  of  shoes,  they 
might  have  been  traced  by  the  blood  flowing  from  their 
lacerated  feet.  When  in  camp,  the  most  gallant  sol- 
diers ot  the  line,  who  never  turned  their  backs  upon 
an  enemy,  have  often  been  discovered  shrinking  from 
observation,  and  soliciting  to  be  excused  from  duty, 
from  the  shame  attending  the  absolute  want  of  clothing 
to  cover  their  nakedness.  To  the  comforts  enjoyed 
by  their  opponents  they  were  altogether  strangers. 
Salt  was  a  luxury  when  it  could  be  obtained,  and 
liquor  still  more  so  ;  but  rarely  indeed  did  they  partake 
of  either.  Often  were  they  known  to  subsist  for 
weeks  together  on  Rice  alone  ;  the  food  (from  the  re- 
ceived opinion  that  it  produced  blindness)  the  most 
hateful  to  them  ;  unless,  when  the  neighbouring  ponds 
and  ditches  afforded  a  mess  of  Frogs  and  Crayfish,  or 
a  scanty  supply  was  tendered  of  beef,  so  miserably 
poor,  that  it  was  not  uncommon  to  support  for  slaugh- 
ter, the  wretched  animal  on  which  they  were  invited 
to  feed. 

A  letter  from  the  Baron  de  Kalb,  dated  August  14th, 
1780,  to  the  Chevalier  de  la  Luzerne,  gives  the  clear- 
est proofs,  both  of  their  sufferings  and  fidelity.  He 
writes,  "You  may  judge  of  the  virtues  of  our  small 
army  from  the  following  fact.  We  have,  for  several 
days,  lived  upon  nothing  but  peaches,  and  1  have  heard 
no  complaint.     There  has  been  no  desertion." 

Of  liquor  it  would  be  farcical  to  speak.  One  quart 
of  spirits  per  head  to  each  officer,  one  gill  to  every 
private  sentinel,  being  the  allowance  distributed  once 
every  fortnight  by  the  issuing  Commissary.  Arms, 
with  the  exception  of  bayonets,  were  in  sufficient 
abundance  ;  but  the  supply  of  ammunition  so  very 
scanty,  that  on  one  occasion,  when  called  on  to  ex- 


THE  CONTENDING  ARMIES.  299 

amine  the  quantity  possessed  by  the   Legion  Infantry, 
in  momentary  expectation  of   engaging  the  British, 
within  view  of  their   post   at  the   Quarter- House,  I 
found  that  it  did  not  exceed  three  rounds  to  a  man. 
This  is  a  topic  that  may,  with  propriety,  be  more  par- 
ticularly dwelt  upon,  sinpe  deprived  of  the  most  essen- 
tial means  of  resistance,  to  face  danger  with  undaunted 
spirit,  gave  evident  proof  of  superior  fortitude,  and 
higher  title  to  praise.     I  will  mention  an  occurrence 
of  a  very  singular  nature,  and  certainly  interesting,  as 
the  fate  of  the  army  in  a  great  measure  depended  op  it. 
After  the   retreat  of  the  American  army  across  the 
Yadkin,  Dr.  William  Read,  superintending  the  Gene- 
ral Hospital,  received  instruction  from  General  Greene 
to  organize  a  guard  of  invalids  and  convalescents,  as 
well  for  the  protection  of  the  stores  of  the  Department, 
as  for  the  better  security  of  several  prisoners  commit- 
ted to  his  charge.    Thirty  stand  of  arms  was  furnished 
for  the  purpose.     Such,  at  the  moment,  was  the  en- 
feebled state  of  the  army,  that  the  General,  ordering 
Dr.  Read  to  incline  to  the  left,  and  to  reach  Virginia 
by   the   nearest   route,    said,—"  You   are   to   march 
through  a  country  much  disaffected,  yet  I  can  neither 
spare  you  a  sufficiency  of  ammunition,  nor  a  military 
superintendant;  you  must  use  every  exertion  to  defend 
yourself,  and  all  expedition  to  reach  your  destination." 
The  General  himself,  taking  a  road  to  the  right,  an 
ammunition  wagon  that  had  been  sent  forward,  de- 
viated from  its  course,  and  actually  preceded  the  party 
attached  to  the  Hospital  Department.     On  its  being 
discovered  that  it  was  missing.  Major  Call,  of  Wash- 
ington's,- was  detached  in  search  of  it,  but  was  unsuc- 
cessful in  all  his  inquiries,  when  falling  in  with  Dr. 
Read,  he  delivered  a  letter  from  the  General,  earnestly 
urging  him  to  use  every  possible  means  to  discover 
and  secure  it,  and  to  send  the  contents,  which  were 
highly  important  to  the  army,  with  all  expedition,  and 


300  COMPARATIVE  SUFFERING  OF 

by  the  most  direct  route  to  him.  On  reaching  Salem, 
the  wagon,  which  had  been  particularly  described  by 
the  General,  was  discovered  in  the  principal  street, 
locked  up,  and  to  all  appearance  its  contents  untouch- 
ed. A  report  had  been  spread  that  Cornwallis  had 
crossed  the  Yadkin,  and  several  Georgia  families  flying 
to  the  North,  and  the  women,  generally  wearing  red 
cloaks,  appearing  in  view,  had  been  mistaken  by  the 
drivers  for  the  enemy,  who  immediately  cut  loose  their 
horses,  abandoned  their  charge,  and  mounting  them, 
precipitately  fled.  Dr.  Read,  in  compliance  with  his 
instructions,  now  applied  to  Mr.  Trangut  Baggu,  the 
respectable  principal  of  the  Moravian  Settlement,  tell- 
ing him  that  necessity  compelled  him  immediately  to 
put  in  requisition  a  certain  number  of  men  and  horses, 
whose  services  could  not  be  dispensed  with,  and  who 
acting  faithfully,  would  be  liberally  rewarded.  Abun- 
dant objections  were  immediately  raised,  as  any  service 
promoting  the  purposes  of  war,  militated  directly 
against  the  principles  of  the  Society ;  but  these  being 
quickly  overruled,  the  cartridges  which  the  wagon  con- 
tained were  carefully  packed  in  sacks,  and  sent  ofl"  on 
six  stout  horses,  under  the  direction  of  men  who  could 
be  relied  on,  and  who,  crossing  the  country  by  an  un- 
frequented route,  reached  the  General  in  safety.  To 
the  honour  of  the  Superintendant,  I  was  informed  by 
Dr.  Read,  that  tendering  pay  for  the  attention  shown  to 
the  sick  and  wounded,  he  said,  "  they  were  sufficiently 
afllicted  by  their  sufferings,  and  that  he  could  not  thinks 
of  aggravating  misfortune  by  draining  their  purses." 
To  Lieutenant  Saunders,  an  officer  severely  wounded, 
who  wished  to  compensate  him  for  distinguished  civili- 
ties received,  by  his  orders,  he  said,  "  were  I  disposed 
to  take  your  money,  humanity  would  forbid  it.  The 
groans  that  you  uttered  during  the  last  night,  too  sen- 
sibly excite  my  pity  to  suffer  me  to  think  of  receiving 
compensation  for  the  trifling  services  I  have  been  able 


THE  CONTENDING  ARMIES.  301 

to  render  you."  When  Dr.  Read  wished  to  settle  his 
own  private  bill,  the  worthy  Principal  decidedly  refused 
all  remuneration,  saying,  with  much  expression  of 
feeling, — "  You  have  passed  the  night  without  sleep, 
administering  comfort  and  consolation  to  the  afflicted; 
you  have  mitigated  the  sufferings  of  your  fellow  men ; 
such  conduct  too  highly  excites  my  admiration,  to 
suffer  me  to  treat  you  otherwise  than  as  a  brother. 
Accept,  gratuitously,  what  you  have  received,  and  be 
assured,  that  to  the  best  that  1  can  bestow  you  shall 
ever  be  welcome." 

In  European  warfare  the  loss  of  a  single  ammunition 
wagon  would  be  regarded  as  a  circumstance  too  trivial 
to  excite  anxiety,  or  to  be  mentioned  with  regret ;  but 
at  the  period  which  I^peak  of,  the  scarcity  of  powder 
and  ball  Was  such  that  it  became  necessary  to  husband 
them  with  the  strictest  attention ;  and  it  is  not  to  be 
questioned,  but  that  the  chance  of  victory  to  America, 
at  the  well  contested  battle  of  Guilford,  which  imme- 
diately followed,  must  have  been  greatly  diminished 
but  for  the  important  service  rendered  by  Dr.  Read. 
But  at  a  later  period,  the  difficulties  arising  from  the 
want  of  ammunition  were  still  further  increased.  It  is 
well  known,  that  in  the  year  1781,  when  the  services 
of  General  Marion  were  most  required  to  check  the 
depredations  of  an  active  enemy,  that  from  the  defi- 
ciency of  this  essential  article,  he  was  too  frequently 
compelled  to  remain  in  a  state  of  inactivity.  Writing 
to  General  Greene  on  the  subject.  Colonel  Otho  Wil- 
liams, the  second  in  command,  replied,  "  General 
Greene  being  absent,  I  took  the  liberty  of  opening  your 
letter  of  the  9th  instant.  Our  stock  of  ammunition  is 
quite  exhausted.  We  have  not  an  ounce  of  powder, 
nor  a  cartridge  in  store." 

To  return  to  the  miseries  sustained  from  other  pri- 
vations. 


302  COMPARATIVE  SUFFERING  OF 

An  officer  of  rank,  belonging  to  our  army,  severely 
wounded  at  Gates'  defeat,  informed  me,  that  as  he 
passed  over  the  field  of  battle  in  the  wagon  which  was 
to  convey  him  to  Camden,  a  Sergeant  of  the  33d 
British  Regiment  looking  into  it,  with  an  expression  of 
generous  sympathy,  said,  "  You  appear,  Sir,  severely 
injured,  and  much  exhausted  by  the  loss  of  blood. 
Take  my  canteen,  its  contents  may  revive  and 
strengthen  you."  An  expression  of  compassionate 
feeling,  at  all  limes  fascinating,  could  not,  at  such  a 
period,  be  received  but  with  peculiar  gratitude.  The 
gift  was  accepted,  and  contained  wine  of  an  excellent 
quality.  Let  me  suppose  that  other  soldiers  were 
supplied  with  liquor  as  liberally  as  this  benevolent 
Sergeant,  and  how  great  the  co^frast  with  the  condi- 
tion of  02«r  unfortunates,  who,  for  many  daysprevious 
to  the  battle,  had  not,  even  under  the  pressure  of  their 
greatest  fatigues,  been  cheered  with  a  single  glass  of 
spirits.  Dr.  William  Read,  superintending  the  Conti- 
nental Hospital  at  Hillsborough,  subsequent  to  the 
defeat  at  Camden,  making  a  representation  to  General 
Gates,  of  the  deplorable  condition  of  the  sick  and 
wounded,  was  asked  by  him,  "  What  have  you  to  com- 
fort them  ?"  "  Literally  nothing,"  replied  Dr.  Read. 
"  Then,"  rejoined  the  General,  "  their  situation  is 
truly  deplorable,  since  I  neither  possess  the  means  of 
yielding  present  relief,  nor  immediate  prospect  of 
affording  any." 

Even  to  those  who  still  retained  their  health,  the 
loss  of  baggage  was  attended  with  incalculable  in- 
crease of  calamity — the  comfort  of  a  necessary  change 
of  linen  was  denied  ;  and  more  than  one  officer,  from 
the  impossibility  of  appearing  with  decency  on  parade, 
was  compelled  altogether  to  avoid  it. 

Of  the  deplorable  situation  of  the  Continental  offi- 
cers, even  of  the  highest  grade,  some  idea  may  be 
formed  from  the  fact  I  am  about  to  relate,  and  which 


THE  CONTENDING  ARMIES.  305 

may  be  relied  on  as  perfectly  correct.     Dr.  Fayssoux 
joining  the  army   of  General  Greene  in  North  Caro- 
lina, called  at  the  hut  of  General  Huger,  the  second 
in  command,  but  was  refused  admission.     The  Doctor 
insisted  on  his  right  to  enter,  the  sentinel  in  conformity 
to  his  orders,  denied  it.     The  altercation  was  heard  by 
the  General,  who  recognizing  the  voice  of  his  friend, 
desired  that  he  might  be  allowed  to  pass  into  the  hut. 
"  Pardon  me,  Doctor,"  said  the  General,  who  lay  on 
the  ground  wrapped  up  in  an  old  military  cloak,  "  for 
giving  you  so  ungracious  a  reception  ;  but,  tlie  fact  is, 
the  chances  of  war  have  robbed  me  of  every  comfort, 
and  I  confined  myself  to  solitude  and  an  old  cloak, 
while  my  washerwoman  prepares  for  a  future  occasion, 
the  only  shirt  I  own."  If  an  officer  of  distinguished  rank, 
universally  beloved  and  respected,  for  whose  accommo- 
dation there  was  not  an  individual  in  the  service  who 
w  ould  not  have  made  sacrifices,  was  thus  circumstanced, 
what  must  have  been  the  miseries  of  the  lower  grades, 
and  wretchedness  of  the  private  sentinels  ?   Applying  to 
a  gentleman,  on  the  accuracy  of  whose  information  I 
Gould  place  the  most  implicit  confidence,  relative  to 
the  sufferings  of  the  army  after  the  battle  of  Guilford, 
he  replied,  "  1  have  known  the  whole  army  subsist  for 
several  days  on  Indian  Corn,  grated  down  on  tin  can- 
teens, in  which  holes  had  been  punched  for  the  occa- 
sTon,  having  no  other  subsistence  of  bread  kind,  every 
Mill  having  been  destroyed  by  the  enemy.     This  was 
particularly  the  case  during  fflfe  pursuit  of  tho  army  of 
Cornwallis  retiring  upon  Wilmington,  when  such  was 
the  extremity  of  suffering,  from  the  want  of  animal 
food,  that  the  Continental  Soldiers  were  feign  to  put 
up  with  the  offal  left  in  the  slaughter-pens  of  the  re- 
treating army.     Of  our  privations  relative  to  the  com- 
forts of  necessary  clothing  against  the  inclemencies  of 
a  rigorous  season,  I  can,  with  truth,  assure  you,  that 
for  the  greater  part  of  the  winter  I  shared  with  Gen- 


304  COMPARATIVE  SUFFERING  O^ 

eral  Huger  and  Colonel  Kosciusko,  an  old  cloak  of  the 
General's,  being  without  a  blanket,  or  any  other  pro- 
tection whatever." 

From  long  marches,  incessant  fatigue,  and  scanty  and 
unwholesome  food,  the  diseases  which  prevailed,  had, 
for  the  most  part,  a  malignant  tendency,  and  stimulants 
were  considered  as  essential  to  counteract  their  threat- 
ening symptoms.  Wine,  spirit,  and  the  medicines  that 
were  most  requisite,  were  not  to  be  procured,  and  on 
decoctions  of  snake-root  alone,  to  obtain  which  the 
whole  country  was  ransacked,  depended  the  chance  to 
the  afflicted,  of  recovery.  Where  surgery  was  neces- 
sary to  give  relief,  the  difficulty  to  the  operator  was  no 
less  distressing.  When  the  gallant  Captain  Watts,  of 
Washington's,  fell  at  Eutaw,  a  ball  having  passed 
through  his  lungs,  Dr.  Irvine  assured  me  that  he  was 
compelled  to  cut  up  a  tent  found  on  the  field  to  make 
bandages,  before  he  could  dress  his  wounds.  On 
another  occasion,  I  knew  a  gentleman  attached  to  the 
Medical  Department,  whose  anxious  mother,  at  the 
moment  of  his  departure  for  the  army,  apprehending 
accident  to  himself,  slipped  six  rolls  of  bandages  into 
his  portmanteau,  and  who  assured  me,  that  a  smart 
engagement  speedily  following,  none  other  were  to  be 
found  for  the  relief  of  the  wounded,  than  the  bandages 
in  his  possession.  The  evidence  of  the  medical  gentle- 
men who  still  survive,  Drs.  Read,  Irvine,  Broomfield, 
and  Stephens,  if  it  wer^necessary  to  call  for  it,  would 
fully  corroborate  the  st  *ement  made  of  the  total  want 
of  the  supplies  essential  to  the  support  of  exhausted 
nature.  And  in  more  than  one  instance,  I  have  myself 
beheld  the  hardy  veteran  sink  into  his  grave,  to  whom 
even  a  small  portion  of  renovating  wine  or  cordial 
might  have  restored  sufficient  vigour  to  resist  the  fatal 
pressure  of  disease.  In  addition  to  this  evil,  despon- 
dency too  frequently  gave  birth  to  that  longing  after 
home,  productive  of  the  most  fatal  consequences.  One 


THE  CONTENDING  ARMIES.  305 

instance  is  very  strongly  impressed  on  my  recollection. 
Emblen,  one  of  the  most  distinguished  soldiers  of  the 
Legion,  who  had  but  a  few  days  before  exhibited,  in 
action,  consummate  bravery,  applied  to  Captain  Ru- 
dolph for  permission  to  visit  his  friends  in  Jersey.  "  I 
would  willingly  grant  you  permission,"  said  Rudolph, 
"  but  consider,  Emblen,  how  pernicious  the  example 
which  you  set.  Others  will  think  themselves  equally 
entitled  with  yourself  to  demand  a  furlough,  and  what 
will  be  the  consequence.  If  granted,  much  injury  will 
be  done  to  the  service,  if  refused,  just  cause  given  for 
offence."  "  I  know  Captain,  that  you  are  right,"  replied 
the  unfortunate  petitioner,  "but  sensibly  feel,  that  to  me 
deninal  is  death."  He  had  not,  at  the  period,  a  symp- 
tom of  disease,  never  after  uttered  a  complaint,  and  in 
three  days  was  a  corpse.  The  Irish  and  Northern 
soldiers,  though  insensible  of  danger  in  the  field,  were, 
in  the  event  of  sickness,  more  than  all  others  subject  to 
despondency ;  insomuch,  that  it  was  constantly  said, 
"  Let  a  Yankee  or  Irishman  say,  /  ivill  die,  and  all 
medical  aid  might  be  withheld,  since  die  he  ivould.^^ 
Equal,  then,  in  active  courage  to  their  adversaries,  I  do 
not  consider  it  an  unfair  conclusion,  to  say,  that  in 
adverse  fortune,  they  greatly  surpassed  them,  or  pro- 
bably any  other  soldiers  that  ever  took  the  field.  The 
opinion  of  General  Charles  Lee,  which  1  consider  as 
high  authority,  was  to  this  effect.  "  I  solemnly  declare, 
that  were  it  at  my  choice  to  select  from  all  the  nations 
of  the  earth,  to  form  an  excellent  and  perfect  army,  I 
would  without  hesitation  give  the  preference  to  Ame- 
ricans. By  publishing  this  opinion,  I  cannot  incur  the 
suspicion  of  paying  court  to  their  vanity,  as  it  is  noto- 
riously the  language  which  I  have  ever  held."* 

The  sentiment  which  I  have  advanced  is  still  further 
corroborated  by  the  steadiness  with  which  they  adhered 

*  Lee's  Memoir.?. 

39 


306  COMPARATIVE  SUFFERING  OF 

to  the  standard  of  their  country,  since  in  defiance  of  all 
the  temptations  held  out  to  encourage  desertion,  par- 
don for  treason,  pecuniary  reward,  and  liberal  promo- 
tion, the  miseries  of  rags  and  rice  were  forgotten,  and 
the  sufferings  of  the  immediate  hour  lost,  in  the  cheer- 
ing hope  of  a  more  propitious  futurity.  The  Anecdote 
which  follows  evinces  the  accuracy  of  my  statement. 
During  the  severity  of  the  winter  campaign  in  North 
Carolina,  General  Greene,  passing  a  sentinel  who  was 
barefoot,  said,  "  I  fear,  my  good  fellow,  you  must  suffer 
from  cold."  "  Pretty  much  so,"  was  the  reply  ;  "  but 
I  do  not  complain,  because  I  know  that  I  should  fare 
better,  had  our  General  power  to  procure  supplies. 
They  say,  however,  that  in  a  few  days  we  shall  have  a 
fight,  and  then,  by  the  blessing  of  God,  I  shall  take 
care  to  secure  a  pair  of  shoes." 

Nor  did  the  retirement  of  the  enemy  within  their 
lines,  cause  any  mitigation  of  suffering.  Who  but  one 
that  experienced  the  calamity,  can  form  a  conception 
of  the  wretchedness  of  the  soldier  exposed,  in  a  dreary 
pine  barren,  to  the  scorching  heat  of  an  almost  vertical 
sun,  without  a  breeze  to  renovate  his  enfeebled  strength, 
or  a  single  comfort  to  cheer  him,  experiencing  the  still 
severer  evils  of  the  night,  when  baleful  vapours,  loaded 
with  pestilential  effluvium,  and  dews  that  chilled  even 
to  the  marrow  of  his  bones,  associated  with  the  inces- 
sant buzzing  and  goading  stings  of  innumerable  insects, 
bid  defiance  to  the  comfort  and  refreshment  of  sleep, 
and  caused  the  day,  with  its  comparatively  trivial  hor- 
rors, to  be  longed  for  again. 

To  the  enemy  the  loss  of  men  by  desertion,  was 
alone  prevented  by  the  difficulties  impeding  every 
effort  to  escape.  The  Navy,  always  on  the  alert,  cut 
off  every  possibility  of  escape  by  water;  and  by  land, 
the  Neck  on  which  Charleston  stands  was  the  onl}' 
outlet.  Yet  many  did  pass  it,  and  it  was  to  the  vigi- 
lance alone  of  their  Black  Dragoons,  whose  orders 


THE  CONTENDING  ARMIES.  307 

were  "  to  strike,  and  spare  not,"  that  the  number  was 
not  greatly  auiB;mented.  Had  but  the  opportunity  been 
afforded  to  the  battalions  of  Hesse,  few  of  their  num- 
ber would  ever  have  returned  to  Germany.  Fourteen 
of  these  unfortunates,  detected  on  one  occasion  in  an 
attempt  to  escape,  were  found  by  our  patrol,  near 
their  outposts,  cut  up  to  atoms.  And  there  need  no 
stronger  proof  of  their  anxiety  to  remain,  than  to  men- 
tion, that  on  the  night  of  the  evacuation  of  the  city, 
considerably  upwards  of  one  hundred  Germans  were 
brought  to  the  main  Guard,  who  had  concealed  them- 
selves in  chimnies  and  common  sewers,  risking  their 
lives,  and  supporting  for  many  days  all  the  miseries  of 
hunger  and  thirst,  rather  than  return  to  their  Prince, 
and  the  soil  of  their  nativity. 

I  would  next  endeavour,  by  candid  comparison,  to 
prove,  that  in  generosity  to  their  enemies  the  soldiers 
of  the  American  army  had  decided  claims  to  superiority. 
The  intrepid  band,  whose  devotion  to  the  cause  of 
Liberty  had  taught  them  not  only  how  to  act,  but  how 
to  suffer,  by  the  same  inspiration  of  exalted  feeling, 
had  learnt  to  temper  the  triumphs  of  victory  with 
mercy  and  forbearance.  Ready  on  all  occasions  to  meet 
and  actively  repel  the  hostile  attacks  of  an  approach- 
ing enemy,  none  were  more  happy  to  spare  a  suppliant 
foe,  than  the  soldiers  of  America. 

Parcere  subjectis  et  debellare  superbos, 

was  the  cherished  principle  of  their  hearts,  and  they 
never  suffered  even  the  most  outrageous  provocation, 
to  cause  the  slightest  deviation  from  it.  Witness  the 
moderation  of  the  conquerors  at  Trenton,  Saratoga, 
the  Cowpens,  and  Eutaw.  Contrast  the  forbearance 
of  Lieutenant  Colonel  Lee,  preventing  the  pursuit  of 
the  misguided  Insurgents  under  Pyle,  with  the  severity 
of  Tarleton,  on  every  occasion  where  the  opportunity 
was  offered,  to  indulge  his  propensity  to  slaughter; 


308  COMPARATIVE  SUFFERING  OF 

and  finally,  having  viewed  the  refinement  in  cruelty  of 
Arnold  at  Fort  Griswold,  wading  through  blood  to 
victory,  turn  to  the  siege  of  York-Town,  and  remem- 
ber how  honourable  to  his  detachment,  storming  the 
advanced  redoubt  of  the  British,  the  expression  of  the 
Marquis  de  la  Fayette.  "  That  incapable  of  imitating 
exami)les  of  barbarity,  and  forgeting  recent  provoca- 
tions, they  spared  every  man  that  ceased  to  resist." 
Still  more  fully  to  show  how  strong  the  desire  of 
the  Americans  to  soften  asperities  towards  the  unfor- 
tunate, I  would  record  the  generous  forbearance 
observed,  in  an  hour  of  extreme  irritation,  towards  the 
wife  and  child  of  the  traitor  Arnold.  Soon  as  it  was 
known  to  him  that  his  guilt  was  discovered  to  its  full 
extent,  Arnold,  entering  the  apartment  of  his  wife,  ex- 
claimed, "  All  is  lost, — Andre  is  a  prisoner, — burn  all 
my  papers ;  I  fly  to  New- York."  The  unfortunate 
lady  fainted  and  fell.  Her  servants,  apprised  of  the 
circumstance  by  the  cries  of  the  child,  whom  she  fed 
at  the  breast,  by  the  application  of  proper  remedies, 
restored  her  senses ;  but  recollecting  that  she  was  in  the 
midst  of  friends  treacherously  forsaken,  and  of  an  army 
that  her  husband  had  basely  endeavoured  to  betray,  it 
may  well  be  imagined,  that  her  anguish  was  ineffable. 
She  trembled  lest  he  should  have  been  arrested  in  his 
flight,  and  distracted  by  her  fears,  called  aloud  for  pardon. 
General  Washington,  who  knew  her  to  be  an  excellent 
wife,  and  respected  her  as  a  good  mother,  unwilling  to 
increase  the  poignancy  of  her  anguish  by  prolonging 
suspense,  with  delicate  kindness  informed  her,  that  the 
object  of  her  solicitude  had  escaped  his  pursuers,  and 
was  safe  on  board  the  Vulture  sloop  of  war.  His 
attentions  did  not  stop  at  this  point.  It  was  left  at  her 
option  to  receive  safe  conduct  to  the  British  lines,  or  to 
return  to  her  friends  and  family  in  Philadelphia.  She 
said,  "  She  would  share  the  fate  of  her  husband  ;  but, 
before  joining  him,  was  anxious  to  see  her  parents,  and 


THE  CONTENDING  ARMIES.  309 

bid  them  a  tender  and  final  adieu."  In  this  request 
too  she  was  indulged.  Not  only  the  General  himself, 
but  even  the  sternest  Republicans,  rejected  the  idea  of 
making  her  answerable  for  the  apostacy  and  crime  of 
her  husband ;  and  of  this  moderation  a  signal  proof 
was  immediately  given.  In  a  town  where  she  stopped, 
on  her  way  to  Philadelphia,  preparations  were  on  foot 
to  burn  Arnold  in  effigy.  On  its  being  announced  to 
the  populace,  that  his  wife  was  within  its  limits,  hu- 
manity assuaged  the  irritations  of  just  indignation, 
and  these  preparations  were,  by  universal  consent,  sus- 
pended. I  mention  with  pleasure,  the  conduct  of  the 
Chevalier  de  la  Luzerne  on  this  occasion.  Letters 
were  found  among  the  papers  of  Arnold,  which  treated 
his  character  with  indignity.  They  were  brought  to 
him,  and  he  at  once  consigned  them  to  the  flames, 
without  the  slightest  expression  of  curiosity  to  know 
their  contents. 

It  is  equally  certain,  that  in  the  exercise  of  recipro- 
cal good  offices  and  acts  of  kindness  to  each  other, 
the  soldiers  of  America  were  actuated  by  sentiments 
of  affectionate  feeling,  with  which  their  adversaries 
appear  to  have  been  altogether  unacquainted.  Their 
association  in  difficulty,  the  adverse  events  which  they 
'  had  shared  together,  united  their  minds  and  their  affec- 
tions in  the  closest  ties.  It  rendered  the  severities  of 
service  more  supportable,  soothed  the  afflictions  of  the 
sick  and  wounded,  and  even  to  the  bed  of  death,  con- 
veyed the  most  grateful  consolations.  To  contribute 
to  the  comfort  of  a  suffering  companion,  I  know  not 
the  man  who  would  not  have  sacrificed  every  con- 
sideration of  self;  and  if  even  a  glimmering  prospect 
appeared  of  procuring  relief,  who  would  not,  with 
unceasing  industry,  have  aimed  at  its  attainment. — 
This  was,  by  no  means,  the  case  in  the  British  army ; 
distinction  of  rank,  and  inequality  of  fortune,  might 
have  weakened  the  enthusiasm  of  military  attachment, 


310  COMPARATIVE  SUFFERING  OF 

and  even  fashion*  may  have  had  its  influences  in  pre- 
venting the  greatest  intimates  from  depending  too  much 
on  each  other.  It  may  be  stated  in  opposition  to  my 
assertion,  that  after  the  fatal  lot  had  been  drawn  by 
Sir  Charles  Asgill,  which  doomed  him  as  a  victim  of 
retaliationj^  to  death,  that  his  friend  Ludlow  would  not 
consent  to  be  separated  from  him.  But,  it  must  be 
recollected,  that  their  intimacy  had  been  formed  in 
early  life  at  Westmmster  School,  long  before  their  en- 
tering into  the  army ;  and  it  was  never  known,  in  the 
hour  of  adversity,  that  one  Westminster  would  forsake 
another.  I  will  adduce,  in  support  of  my  charge,  an 
Anecdote  received  from  the  distinguished  personage  to 
whom  it  particularly  relates.  An  officer  of  the  Guards, 
severely  wounded  at  Guilford,  was  passing  the  tent  of 
Colonel  Howard,  since  Lord  Suffolk,  on  a  litter,  the 
morning  subsequent  to  the  battle,  when  thus  addressed 
|)y  i^im  : — "  Ha,  Jack,  my  good  fellow,  how  do  you 
find  yourself  to  day  ?"  "  In  much  agony.  Colonel  ; 
but  I  think  likely  to  feel  better,  if  favoured  by  a  cup 
of  the  good  tea  which  I  see  before  you."  "  Why,  as 
to  the  tea,  Jack,"  said  the  Colonel,  "  you  shall  be 
welcome  to  it  ;  but,  damn  me  if  I  vvould  find  sugar  in 
this  desolate  wilderness  for  a  brother."  "  Pass  on," 
said  the  wounded  man,  "  refreshment  so  ungraciously 
bestowed,  could  do  me  no  good." 

But,  with  what  shadow  of  excuse  could  any  man 
attempt  to  palliate  the  insolence,  and  still  more,  the 
ingratitude  of  which  there  were  perpetual  examples. 
The  contempt  with  which  they  affected  to  regard  the 
citizens  of  America,  the  free  indulgence  of  insolence 
towards  captives,  placed  by  the  chances  of  war  within 
their  power,  increased  the  arrogance  of  many  military 

*  An  officer  of  the  Guards  assured  me,  that  however  great  the  familiarity 
and  appearance  of  friendship  in  the  guard  room,  or  in  mixed  society,  that  it 
gave  no  sanction  to  an  intimacy  in  the  family  of  an  associate,  or  even  (o 
make  a  visit,  unless  by  particular  invitation. 


THE  CONTENDING  ARMIES.  311 

characters  to  so  high  a  pitch,  that  they  actually  ap- 
peared to  consider  themselves  as  beings  of  a  superior 
order.  The  military  in  France,  in  latter  times,  apply- 
ing the  contemptuous  appellation  of  pequins  to  the 
rest  of  the  world,  were  not  more  arrogant.  A  thou- 
sand instances  gave  proof  of  it  in  Charleston.  One 
has  been  particularly  mentioned.  A  military  coxcomb 
of  the  garrison,  having  a  dispute  with  a  gentleman  in 
the  Civil  Department,  significantly  pointing  to  his 
coat,  exclaimed,  "  I,  Sir,  by  my  coat,  am  a  gentleman. 
You  a  Mohair,  a  mere  man  of  fustian,  and  too  con- 
tem[)tible  to  excite  resentment."  Of  their  ingratitude 
I  will  give  a  very  striking  example.  They  had  but 
few  friends  in  Carolina,  but  those  who  had  adhered  to 
them  did  it  with  a  pride  and  devotion  that  claimed 
their  utmost  gratitude.  Yet  it  is  certain,  that  they 
laughed  at  and  despised  the  very  persons  to  whom 
they  were  the  most  indebted. 

The  Harry  Barry,  so  frequently  mentioned  in  these 
Anecdotes,  while  in  public  he  flattered  with  marked 
attention,  was  well  known  in  the  circle  of  his  inti- 
mates, to  ridicule  in  miserable  doggerel  the  females,  at 
the  shrine  of  whose  beauty,  he  affected  to  pay  his  ado- 
ration. And  after  the  war,  I  heard  a  very  respectable 
refugee  declare,  that  having  been  absent  from  England 
for  some  time,  and  on  his  return,  meeting  in  the  streets 
of  London  with  Major  Skelly,  who,  when  in  the  gar- 
rison of  Charleston,  had  been  received  in  his  family 
on  the  footing  of  a  brother,  he  began  anxiously  to 
inquire  about  the  fortunes  of  many  of  their  former 
acquaintances,  when  laconically  and  with  a  very  signi- 
ficant bow,  he  replied,  "  Mr.  R ,  I  am  a  man  of 

candour,  and  would  not  wish  to  deceive  you.  My 
American  acquaintances  were  altogether  the  acquain- 
tances of  convenience,  and  I  have  cut  them  all.  I 
take  the  liberty,  therefore,  to  wish  you  a  very  good 
mornmg." 


THE  MOST  ILLUSTRIOUS  PATRIOTS 

OF  GREAT  BRITAIN, 
OPPOSED  TO  THE  AMERICAN  WAR. 


In  looking  back  to  the  history  of  our  Revolution,  it 
is  pleasing  to  recollect,  that  the  characters  throughout 
the  United  States,  the  most  distinguished  by  their 
talents  and  their  virtues,  with  scarcely  an  exception, 
embraced  the  principles  which  were  to  free  their  coun- 
try from  a  servile  dependence  upon  a  corrupt  and 
tyrannical  government.  In  Great  Britain,  the  indi- 
viduals the  most  exalted  in  the  esteem  of  the  public — 
the  wisest  in  council, — the  most  renowned  for  integ- 
rity, and  entertaining  the  most  correct  views  of  the  just 
rights  of  the  people,  and  true  interests  of  the  nation, 
not  only  commended  the  zeal  and  unanimity  with 
which  the  Colonists  resisted  the  attempts  of  the  admi- 
nistration to  oppress  them,  but,  both  by  their  sentiments 
freely  disseminated  abroad,  and  irresistible  eloquence 
on  the  floor  of  Parliament,  encouraged  them  to  persist 
in  defence  of  their  violated  rights  and  privileges,  even 
when  sensible  that  successful  opposition,  by  giving 
birth  to  the  independency  of  the  revolted  Provinces, 
would  rob  the  Crown  of  its  brightest  and  most  inesti- 
mable jewel.  Ambition  alone,  it  is  generally  said, 
bears  predominant  sway  in  the  bosoms  of  political 
characters;  but  I  cannot  think  that  the  line  of  conduct 


PATRIOTS  OF  GREAT  BRITAIN,  &c.  313 

adopted  by  the  distinguished  men  to  whom  I  allude, 
proceeded  either  from  a  determined  spirit  of  opposition, 
or  the   secret,  though  fondly  cherished  hope,  that  by 
renderins;  the  acts  of  the  Administration  unpopular, 
they  might  open  the  way  to  their  own  advancement  to 
power,    and  the   attainment  of  the  authority  which 
would  place  the  reins  in  their  hands,  by  which  the 
destinies  of  the  nation  were  to  be  guided.     Such  con- 
tracted views  were  surely  inconsistent  with  the  well 
tried  patriotism  of  many  of  the  advocates  of  America. 
They  opposed  the  inordinate  strides  of  the  Ministry 
towards  the  establishment  of  despotism,  from  a  clear 
perception  that  their  success  in  America,  would  be  but 
the  prelude  to  their  efforts  to  destroy  domestic  liberty, 
and   that  the  extinction  of  freedom   in  the   Western 
world,  would  be  speedily  followed  by  its  annihilation 
in  their  native  land.     In  the  House  of  Lords,  the  im- 
mortal Chatham,  the  Dukes  of  Richmond,  Grafton, 
and    Devonshire,   the   Marquis   of  Rockingham,   the 
Lords  Camden,  Shelbourne,  Fitzwilliam,  Effingham, 
and  others;  in  the  House  of  Commons,  Burke,  Colo- 
nel Barre,  Fox,  David  Hartley,  Lord  Thomas  Caven- 
dish,  General   Conway,   and  Wilks;   among  men  of 
letters,  Drs.  Price  and  Priestly,  John  Miller,  of  Glas- 
gow, advocated  the  resistance  of  the  Americans,  and 
rejoiced  at  their  successes,  as  essentially  beneficial  to 
the  liberty  and  happiness  of  the  world.     On  the  other 
hand,  the  Administration,  with  blind  infatuation,  per- 
sisted in  their  resolution  to  put  down  opposition,  and 
by  the  most  absurd  and  gross  mispresentations  strove 
to  render  the  people  propitious  to  their  views.     The 
information    which   they   might   have  received,    and 
which  could  not  have  failed  to  dissipate  the  delusive 
hope  of  successfully  terminating  the  war,  was  either 
not  sought  for,  or  when  given,  not  attended  to.   I  have 
often  heard  a  respectable  Loyalist,  Mr.  Henry  Peron- 
ncau,   the  first   Refugee  from   South  Carolina,  who 

40 


314  PATRIOTS  OF  GREAT  BRITAIN 

reached  Great  Britain,  declare,  that  when  exaniined  by 
the  Lords  North  and  Germaine,  relative  to  the  state  of 
affairs  in   America,  that  although  the  first  named  of 
these  noblemen  listened  with  politeness  and  compla- 
cency to  the  statements  which  he  made,  that  tde  last 
invariably    checked   the  current  of  his   information, 
where  it  did  not  altogether  correspond  with  hi§  views 
and  cherished  hopes  of  conquest.     And  it  to  this  day 
remains  a  blot  upon  the  character  of  the  nation,  that 
when  the  venerable   Dr.  Franklin  was  called  up  for 
examination  before  the  Privy  Council,  that  instead  of 
the  interrogations  being  made,  that  would  have  led  to 
the  development  of  the  truth,  and  probably  healed  the 
wounds  that  were  festering  with  incessant  increase  of 
irritation,  that  the  stern  and  vindictive  Wedderhourne 
was  encouraged  to  indulge  in  a  degree  of  ribaldry  and 
invective,  disgraceful  to  his  character  as  a  gentleman, 
and  betraying  an  extent  of  prejudice,  dishonourable  to 
liim  as  a  man.    The  more  certainly  to  effect  their  pur- 
poses, no  calumny  was  restrained  by  the  Administra- 
tion, no  act  nor  device  was  left  unessayed  to  excite  to 
the  highest  pitch  the  resentments  of  the  people  against 
their  persecuted  brethren.     The  steadiness  of  their  re- 
sistance to  the  arbitrary  decrees,  and  the  rejection  of 
the  burdens  they  wished  to  impose,  were  styled  the 
stubborn  aggressions  of  rebellious  children  against  the 
just  rights  of  their  parent,  an  open  violation  of  the  duty 
and  submission   which  nature  demanded,  and  which 
ought  to  result  from  its  love,  and  fostering  care  and 
protection.  The  avarice,  too,  of  the  people  was  excited 
by  being  perpetually  told,  that  this  obstinate  race  not 
only  refused  to  contribute  to  a  siiare  in  the  expenditure 
lavished  for  their  support  and  protection,  but  refused 
to  bear  a  proportion  of  the  burden  of  taxation,  which, 
equitably  divided,  would  greatly  lessen  the  proportion, 
under  existing  circumstances,  unjustly  imposed  on  the 
Parent  State.     The  people  were  deceived,  and  led  to 


OPPOSED  TO  THE  AMERICAN  WAR,         315 

approve  the  war.  The  opinions  of  the  patriots  of  the 
nation  were  not  so  easily  influenced.  In  proof  it  I  will 
present  to  my  readers  extracts  from  two  letters  of  that 
excellent  man  and  profound  politician,  the  late  Right 
Honourable  William  Windham,  written  to  a  deceased 
patriot  of  our  own  State,  Paul  Trapier,  jun.  Esq.  who 
had  been  his  intimate  friend,  and  the  companion  of  his 
early  years,  at  Eaton. 


COPY   OP     A    LETTER   PROM     THE     HONOURABLE    WILLIAM    WINDHAM, 
TO   PAUL    TRAPIER,   JUN,    ESft.    OP    SOUTH-CAROLINA,   DATED 

^^  London,  July  SOth,  1777 • 
"  My  Dear  Friend, 

"  An  opportunity  is  at  length  given  to  me,  of  writing  to  you 
with  some  prospect  of  safe  conveyance  ;  let  me  avail  myself  of  the 
means  offered  to  me,  though  it  be  only  to  send  you  a  itvf  lines — a  few 
lines  may  answer  the  chief  purpose  of  my  writing,  and  relieve  me 
from  an  uneasiness  that  has  dwelt  upon  my  mind,  ever  since  the  first 
interruption  of  communication  between  the  two  countries.  You  may 
remember,  that,  though  in  all  your  letters  you  used  to  enter  upon  sub- 
jects of  Politics,  I  seldom  used  to  take  much  notice  of  them  in  return, 
or  give  you  any  satisfactory  account  of  my  opinions.  The  reason 
was,  that  at  that  time,  the  subject  had  never  come  within  my  con- 
sideration, nor  had  I  employed  my  thoughts  long  enough  on  the 
matters  you  used  to  propose,  to  form  any  determinate  opinion. 
Things  soon  after  came  to  a  crisis,  in  which  it  was  no  longer  possible 
for  a  man  of  understanding  or  feeling  to  remain  without  inquiry  ;  and 
the  result  of  that  inquiry  has  been,  to  render  me  a  firm  and  zealous 
friend,  as  firm  and  zealous  as  any  one  either  in  this  country  or 
your^s,  to  the  cause  in  tohich  you  are  engaged.  Be  assured,  that 
through  the  whole  of  this  busmess,  my  fears  and  hopes  have  kept 
exact  pace  with  your's.  I  have  exulted  at  your  success,  and  repined 
at  your  miscarriage — have  heard  with  as  much  grief  any  advantage 
of  Howe,  and  triumphed  as  much  at  the  success  of  Washington, 
as  any  man  on  your  side  the  water.  The  hope  is  now  lost  for  ever, 
of  seeing  this  country  blended  again  with  our  former  brethren  on  the 


316  PATRIOTS  OF  GREAT  BRITAIN 

other  side  of  the  Atlantic,  in  bonds  of  mutual  honour,  interest,  and 
affection.  The  mischievous  designs  of  a  corrupt  court,  operating  in 
the  midst  of  universal  luxury  and  depravity,  have  spread  rancour  and 
devastation  through  millions  of  people,  that  ought  to  have  been 
united  in  the  ties  of  brotherly  love  ;  and  shaken  an  empire  to  pieces^ 
that  was  the  greatest,  and  might  have  been  the  happiest  on  earths 
But,  out  of  this  scene  of  evil,  final  good,  I  hope,  will  be  produced. 
America,  rising  in  the  vigour  of  new-born  virtue,  will  be  better,  per- 
haps, for  her  separation  from  this  corrupt  and  depraved  country,  and 
will,  I  hope,  long  continue  the  asylum  of  freedom  and  virtue.  For 
the  fate  of  us  here,  I  am  much  less  solicitous,  than  for  the  general 
interests  of  mankind,  the  preservation  of  freedom  in  some  part  of 
the  globe,  and  the  success  of  a  people  engaged  in  so  righteous  a  cause  ; 
and  these,  I  am  happy  to  say,  are  the  sentiments  of  numbers  of  the 
people,  whom  I  rank  among  my  friends. 

"  Though  you  are  now  safely,  I  hope,  established  in  Independence, 
and  though  this  country,  if  it  is  to  be  judged  by  its  public  acts,  has 
but  little  claim  to  kindness,  yet  all  memory,  I  hope,  will  not  be  lost 
of  those,  (not  an  inconsiderable  number)  who  had  viewed  with  hor- 
ror, the  measures  that  have  been  pursued,  and  of  the  hundreds  and 
thousands  who  have  had  no  other  crime,  than  a  total  ignorance  of 
what  concerned  them  as  well  as  you.  I  am  fully  persuaded,  that 
there  is  a  fund  of  candour,  and  honest  good  sense  among  the  people 
here,  that  would  have  made  three-fourths  of  them  Partisans  of  Ame- 
rica, if  the  merits  of  the  cause  had  been  properly  made  known  to 
them.  But,  the  higher  orders  of  society  are  lost  in  vice  and  dissipa- 
tion, and  the  nation  has  been  left  to  itself,  abandoned  to  the  wicked 
industry  of  the  court.  Nothing  will  save  us,  lost  and  devoted  as  we 
are,  but  a  general  insurrection  of  the  lower  orders  of  the  people, 
purging  off  the  contaminated  spume,  that  has  mantled  over  the  top 
of  the  spring,  and  threatened  to  choke  it  up. 

"  In  all  relations  and  situations,  our  sentiments  and  attachments 
will  remain,  I  hope,  the  same  ;  and  I  shall  be  happy  if  friendship  to 
an  individual  may  dispose  you  to  a  more  favourable  regard  of  people, 
a  great  portion  of  whom,  perhaps  the  greatest,  are  still  such  as  deserve 
the  name  of  countrymen  and  brethren.  1  could  name  many  of  those 
you  formerly  knew,  warm  in  the  sentiments  which  animate  me. 
Many  go  with  the  stream  of  ministerial  corruption.  Grymes,  John 
Grymes,  of  whom  I  had  entertained  other  hopes,  is,  as  I  take  it  for 
granted  you  know,  actually  engaged  against  you. 


OPPOSED  TO  THE  AMERICAN  WAR.         317 

"  The  Americans  have  one  reason  to  feel  less  resentment  at 
Howe's  army,  which  is,  that  I  am  persuaded  the  greatest  part  of 
them  would  act  with  precisely  the  same  alacrity,  against  any  part  of 
the  people  here,  as  against  those  in  America ;  I  have  heard  many 
declare  it  in  so  many  words.  If  it  should  be  possible,  it  would 
eive  me  infinite  satisfaction,  to  know  that  you  have  received 
this,  and  in  what  situation  you  are,  for  I  can  hear  nothing.  I  must 
leave  off  now  immediately,  believe  me,  my  dear  friend,  with  every 
wish  for  your  success.     Your's." 


"  Dunkirk,  March   12th,  1778. 
"  My  Dear  Trapier, 

"  An  opportunity  has  offered  of  writing  to  you,  which  I  could 
hardly  have  looked  for.  I  must  write  in  a  hurry,  but  that  shall  not 
prevent  my  writing.  A  few  words  may  express  what  is  essential,  as 
well  as  a  great  many.  You  are  to  know,  that  since  the  commence- 
ment of  this  fatal  war,  I  have  written  to  you  numerous  letters,  the 
purport  of  all  of  which  has  been,  to  tell  you  what  I  hope  j^ou  will 
hear  with  pleasure,  that  I  am  a  firm  and  zealous  friend  to  the  cause  of 
America  in  the  fullest  extent.  I  reprobate  from  the  beginning  the 
conduct  of  Great  Britain.  I  feel,  with  the  fullest  conviction,  the 
madness  and  wickedness  of  our  Councils ;  and  I  exult  in  the  resistance 
which  America  has  made,  and  the  success  with  which  it  has  been 
crowned.  The  weakness  of  Great  Britain,  and  not  the  justice  or 
generosity  will  now,  I  hope,  put  a  period  to  the  progress  of  calamit}'. 
Though  I  have  no  expectations  from  the  propositions  now  made  in  a 
manner  the  most  disgraceful  to  the  country,  yet  I  flatter  myself  we 
shall  not  have  much  more  war.  I  have  looked  upon  the  affair  for 
some  time  as  decided,  and  decided  in  favour  of  justice,  liberty,  and 
the  general  happiness  of  mankind.  It  terminates,  indeed  most  com- 
pletely, to  the  dishonour  of  England  ;  but,  if  England  will  depart 
from  all  those  generous  principles  which  have  hitherto  enobled  it, 
and  become  the  invader,  instead  of  the  supporter  of  the  liberties  of 
the  world,  I  shall  be  the  first  to  say,  let  her  meet  with  disgrace.  I 
could  wish  very  much  to  see  the  two  countries  united  in  some  shape 
or  other,  so  as  to  feel  again  a  common  interest  and  glory.  The  point 
of  Independence  is  not  a  matter  with  me  of  any  consequence.  If 
Independence  is  necessary  to  the  welfare  or  safety  of  America,  let  a 
treaty  be  instantly  formed  on  that  ground  ;  but,  if  Liberty  can  be  as 
well   secured  without  that,  and  that  the  countries  considered  as  one, 


318  PATRIOTS  OF  GREAT  BRITAIN,  &c. 

will  be  likel}'  to  settle  into  a  closer  union,  I  would  wish  it  were  given 
up.  Nor  can  I  see,  that  the  condition  of  America,  considered  not  as 
an  appendant  to  this  country,  but  as  a  partner  in  a  common  empire, 
will  be  less  respectable,  then  as  a  collection  of  independant  States. 
This  is  the  sum  of  my  sentiments,  which  it  would  be  an  infinite  relief 
to  me  to  know,  that  you  were  acquainted  with.  It  has  been,  for  these 
three  years,  a  most  painful  reflection  to  me  to  think,  that  you  might 
possibly  be  under  the  impression  of  my  entertaining  sentiments 
which  I  hold  in  utter  abhorrence. 

"  I  write  this  letter  to  you  from  a  place  where  you  will  be  sur- 
prised to  hear  of  me — Dunkirk — whither  I  have  come  for  a  day  by 
accident,  having  come  over  for  ten  days  to  St.  Omer's,  to  see  a  friend, 
who  has  been  obliged  lately  to  reside  there.  An  American  Captain 
of  a  privateer  is  here,  who  lately  escaped  from  England,  of  the  name 
of  Johnson,  and  to  him  I  have  intrusted  this  letter,  inclosed  in  one  to 
Arthur  Lee,  whom  I  knew  at  Paris.  I  think  in  the  summer,  I 
shall  with  some  other  persons  of  the  same  sentiments  as  myself, 
make  a  trip  to  Paris  to  see  him  and  Deane,  &c.  I  think  by  his 
means  we  may  effect  the  correspondence,  which  I  am  happy  to  find 
you  express  a  strong  wish  for,  in  the  letter  I  received  from  you  at  the 
end  of  last  summer.  I  know  enough  of  him  to  desire  in  my  letter, 
that  he  would  take  charge  of  such  letters.  Write  to  me,  therefore, 
my  invaluable  friend,  and  don't  have  any  apprehension,  that  any 
political  sentiments  that  you  can  express,  will  not  accord  with  my 
own.  You  have  given,  in  the  forbearance  of  all  political  subjects  in 
your  former  letter,  the  strongest  instance  of  your  friendship  ;  but  you 
will  not,  for  the  future,  be  under  the  necessity  of  giving  that  proof^ 
Let  me  beg  to  offer  my  best  respects  to  Mrs.  Trapier,  though  I  have 
not  yet  the  pleasure  of  knowing  her.     Believe  me,  ever, 

W.  W." 


NOTICE  OF  BOTTA'S  HISTORY  OF  THE 
REVOLUTION. 


It  is  altogether  incomprehensible  to  me,  on  what 
grounds  a  modern  historian,  (Botta)  should  have  ad- 
vanced an  opinion,  that  the  French  nation,  wearied  out 
by  disastrous  warfare,  and  compelled  to  accept  the 
conditions  of  the  Peace  of  Paris,  concluded  in  1763, 
had  resorted  to  the  means  of  address  to  excite  the 
resentments  of  the  Colonists  against  the  Parent  State, 
and  that  the  Independence  of  the  United  States  re- 
sulted, in  a  great  measure,  from  the  success  of  their 
intrigues.  Emissaries,  he  boldly  asserts,  traversed  the 
American  continent,  saying  to  all  who  would  hear 
them  : 

"  To  what  end  have  the  Americans  lavished  their 
blood,  encountered  so  many  dangers,  and  expended  so 
much  treasure  in  the  late  war,  if  the  English  supre- 
macy must  continue  to  press  upon  them,  with  so  much 
harshness  and  arrogance  ?  In  recompense  of  such 
fideliry,  of  so  much  constancy,  the  English  Govern- 
ment, perhaps,  have  moderated  its  prohibitions,  have 
enfranchised  commerce  from  trammels  so  prejudicial 
to  the  interests  of  America  ?  Perhaps  the  odious,  and 
so  much  lamented  laws  against  manufactures,  have 
been  repealed  ?  Perhaps  the  Americans  no  longer 
toil  upon  their  lands,  or  traverse  the  immensity  of  the 
seas,  exclusively  to  fill  the  purses  of  English  Mer- 
chants ?  Perhaps  the  Government  of  England  have 
shown  a  disposition  to  abandon  for  ever,  the  project  of 


320  NOTICE  OF  BOTTA'S  HISTORY 

parliamentary  taxes  ?  Is  it  not,  on  the  contrary,  evi- 
dent, that  with  its  forces  and  power,  have  increased  its 
thirst  of  gold  and  the  tyranny  of  its  caprices  ?  Was 
not  this  admitted  by  Pitt  himself,  when  he  declared, 
the  war  being  terminated,  he  should  be  at  no  loss  to 
find  the  means  of  drawing  a  public  revenue  from  Ame- 
rica, and  of  putting  an  end  once  for  all  to  American 
resistance  ?  Has  not  England,  at  present,  being  mis- 
tress of  Canada,  a  province  recently  French,  and  as 
such  more  patient  of  the  yoke,  has  she  not  the  means 
of  imposing  it  on  her  colonists  themselves,  by  the 
hands  of  her  numerous  soldiery  ?  Is  it  not  time  that 
the  Americans  no  longer,  in  the  state  of  infancy, 
should,  at  length,  consider  themselves  a  nation  strong 
and  formidable  in  itself  ?  Is  it  only  for  the  utility  of 
England,  tliey  have  demonstrated  in  the  late  war  what 
they  are  capable  of  achieving  ?  And  by  what  right 
should  a  distant  Island  pretend  to  govern  by  its  ca- 
prices, an  immense  and  populous  Continent  ?  How 
long  must  the  partialities  and  the  avarice  of  England 
1)6  tolerated  ?  Did  ever  men,  arms,  riches,  courage, 
climate  invite  to  a  more  glorious  enterprise  ?  Let  the 
Americans  then  seize  the  occasion,  with  a  mind  wor- 
thy of  themselves,  now  they  have  i)roved  their  arms, 
now  that  an  enormous  public  debt  overwhelms  Eng- 
land, now  that  her  name  has  become  detestable  to  all ! 
America  can  place  her  confidence  in  foreign  succours. 
What  could  be  objected  to  a  resolution  so  generous  ? 
Consanguinity  ?  But  have  not  the  English  hitherto 
treated  the  Colonists  more  as  vassals,  than  as  brothers  ? 
Gratitude  ?  But,  have  not  the  Elnglish  strangled  it, 
under  the  pretensions  of  that  mercantile  and  avaricious 
spirit  wi>ich  animates  them  ?" 

There  surely  never  was  a  more  gross  tissue  of  ab- 
surdity and  falsehood  [)ublished.  Hear  the  opinion 
of  the  veteran  De  Kalb.  He  frequently  mentioned, 
that  be  had  traversed  the  British  Colonies  at  the  insti- 


OF  THE  REVOLUTION.  321 

gation  of  the  French  Court,  in  a  concealed  character, 
doubtless  to  sow  the  seeds  of  discontent,  if  he  had 
found  the  minds  of  the  people  prepared  to  receive 
them;  but,  this  was  far  from  being  the  case  ;  for,  when 
speaking  of  the  war  of  the  Revolution,  he  never 
failed  to  express  his  astonishment,  how  any  govern- 
ment could  have  so  blundered,  as  to  have  effaced  the 
ardent  and  deep  rooted  affection,  which  to  his  know- 
ledge existed,  on  the  part  of  the  Colonies  to  Great 
Britain,  previous  to  the  existing  rupture.  A  prefer- 
ence, he  observed,  equalled  only  by  their  antipathy  to 
the  French  Nation,  which  was  so  powerful  as  to  in- 
duce him  to  consider  it,  as  he  called  it — instinctive. 
It  cannot  be  possible,  that  opinion  should  waver  be- 
twixt the  accurate  discernment  of  the  one,  and  the 
chimerical  dreams  of  the  other.  The  statement  of 
De  Kalb,  accounts  for  the  total  neglect  of  every  pre- 
paration for  war  at  the  commencement  of  hostilities. 
They  loved  and  had  confidence  in  the  affection  of  the 
Parent  State  ;  nor  believed  it  possible,  that  their  rights 
would  be  so  trampled  upon,  as  to  render  an  appeal  to 
arms  a  necessary  result  from  the  dispute  existing  be- 
tween them.  If,  as  Botta  asserts,  intrigue  had  been 
used  with  success  to  instigate  revolt,  the  Americans 
must  have  been  more  than  mad,  not  to  have  prepared 
the  means  to  have  met  their  adversaries  on  a  footing  of 
equality,  and  to  have  repelled  force  by  force.  But,  it 
would  be  farcical  to  contend  against  an  opinion,  which 
the  conviction  of  every  man,  acquainted  with  the 
events  of  the  times,  would  declare,  not  only  visionary, 
but  decidedly  false.  One  truth  comes  home  to  the 
recollection  of  every  man,  who  lived  in  those  days. 
The  attachment  to  England  was  such,  that  to  what- 
ever the  Colonists  wished  to  affix  the  stamp  of  excel- 
lence, the  title  of  English  was  always  given.  The 
best  of  its  kind,  whether  in  the  vegetable  ox  animal 
kingdom,  was  alwavs  English.    Nay,  to  such  a  length 

41 


NOTICE  OF  BOTTA'S  HISTORY 

was  the  prejudice  carried,  that  attachment  to  the  soil 
of  their  nativity  was  weakened  by  acknowledsing  the 
superior  claim  of  England  to  their  warmest  affections. 
To  reside  in  England  was  the  object  of  universal 
desire,  the  cherished  hope  of  every  bosom ;  it  stimulated 
to  industry,  it  was  the  goal  at  which  every  individual 
in  pussuit  of  fortune  wished  to  arrive.  It  was  con- 
sidered as  the  delightful  haven,  where  peace  and  hap- 
piness were  alone  to  be  looked  for.  A  parent  send- 
ing his  sons  to  Eaton  or  Westminster,  would  say,  "  I 
am  sending  my  sons  home  for  their  education."  If  he 
himself  should,  at  an  after  period,  cross  the  Atlantic, 
though  but  for  a  summer  season,  to  witness  their  pro- 
gress, he  would  say,  "  I  am  going  home  to  visit  my  chil- 
dren, and  so  forth."  Such  language  would  ill  accord 
with  the  sentiments  of  men  engendering,  according  to 
Botta,  resentment,  and  opinions  hostile  to  Britain. 
Persuaded,  then,  that  the  Colonists  bore  the  sincerest 
attachment  to  the  Parent  State,  and  that  from  the  reci- 
procity of  affection,  they  looked  for  a  speedy  and  per- 
manent reconciliation  with  it,  I  can  correctly  state, 
that  in  Carolina  nothing  was  less  thought  of  or  desired, 
than  Independence ;  and  moreover,  that  it  was  so  little 
contemplated,  that  there  was  not  in  the  possession  of 
the  Whig  inhabitants  throughout  the  State,  a  sufficiency 
of  arms  to  supply  a  single  Battalion.  These  observa- 
tions relative  to  the  work  of  Botta,  lead  me  to  mention 
an  occurrence  very  highly  creditable  to  the  parties  con- 
cerned in  its  ascomplishment. 

The  determination  to  oppose  the  unjust  encroach- 
ments of  Britain  ui)on  the  liberties  of  the  nation,  once 
resolved  on,  it  became  an  object  of  the  first  conse- 
quence to  obtain  the  means  of  effectual  resistance. 
The  King's  Arsenal  was  kept  in  the  attic  story  of  the 
State-House,  and  contained,  as  it  would  appear  by  the 
proclamation  of  the  Lieutenant  Governor  Bull,  offering 
a  rewai'd  for  the  apprehension  of  the  individuals  who 


OF  THE  REVOLUTION.  323     ^ 

plundered  it,  about  800  stand  of  arms,  besides  200 
cutlasses,  and  other  military  stores.  Tiie  possession  of 
these  essential  implements  of  war,  necessarily  appear- 
ed in  the  eyes  of  the  Committee  of  Safety  of  the  utmost, 
consequence.  Secret  meetings  were  accordingly  held 
to  digest  a  plan  for  the  purpose,  which  was  speedily 
adopted,  and  executed  with  the  happiest  success.  The 
regulation  of  the  entire  business  was  entrusted  to 
Messrs.  Daniel  Cannon,  William  Johnson,  Anthony 
Toomer,  Edward  Weyman,  and  Daniel  Stevens,  and 
so  admirably  arranged  and  conducted  throughout,  that 
the  whole  of  the  arms  were  carried  off,  and  safely  de- 
posited for  the  future  use  of  the  citizens,  before  the 
Governor,  or  Armourer,  had  the  slightest  suspicion  of 
the  event.  The  alarm  excited  by  this  bold  measure, 
at  once  opened  the  eyes  of  the  Royal  Officers  to  the 
peril  of  their  situation.  It  decidedly  accelerated  the 
flight  of  the  Governor  Lord  William  Campbell.  He 
could  not  mistake  the  motives  of  the  seizure,  nor 
believe  that  respect  would  be  shown  to  hife  person, 
where  so  little  regard  was  paid  to  his  authority.  He 
accordingly  went  on  board  the  Cherokee  ;  and  on  the 
arrival  of  Sir  Peter  Parker,  volunteered  his  services, 
fought  gallantly,  received  a  severe  wound,  and  died 
of  its  consequences. 


.^;^- 


INSTANCES 


OF    THE 


BENIGN  INTERPOSITION  OF  PROVIDENCE  IN 
AMERICAN  AFFAIRS. 


Without  the  affectation  of  habitually  indulging  in 
serious  meditation,  or  contemplating  with  reverential 
awe  the  beneficence  of  the  Deity — without  presuming 
to  boast  a  pious  gratitude,  to  which  I  can  have,  when 
compared  with  men  of  more  serious  temper,  but  slight 
pretension,  I  conscientiously  declare,  that  in  no  con- 
test that  I  ever  heard,  or  read  of,  has  the  favour  and 
protection  of  the  Almighty,  appeared  to  incline  with 
such  preference,  and  been  manifested  in  such  multi- 
plied occurrences,  as  in  the  war  which  separated  the 
United  States  from  the  dominion  of  Great  Britain. 
In  thus  expressing  myself,  I  trust  1  shall  not  be  con- 
sidered as  apologizing  for  sentiments  that  I  delight  to 
cherish.  The  man,  whose  exalted  worth  not  only 
does  honour  to  his  country,  but  to  the  human  race,  the 
immortal  Washington,  in  the  height  of  success,  in  the 
achievement  of  his  most  brilliant  victories,  never  failed 
to  express  his  perfect  belief  in  the  interposition  of  Pro- 
vidence. In  his  Public  Despatches,  his  Private  Cor- 
respondence, his  General  Orders,  he  spoke  not  of  his 
own  prowess,  but  of  the  goodness  of  God,  the  giver 
of  Victory,  who  taught  him  to  overcome  difficulties 


INTERPOSITION  OF  PROVIDENCE,  &c.         326 

that  would,  without  his  aid,  have  proved  insurmout- 
able  ;  nor  would  ever  assume  to  himself,  honours  that 
he  regarded  as  due  to  the  Almighty  alone. 

I  presume  not  to  depend  upon  my  own  inferior  and 
contracted  ability,  to  support  my  opinions;  but  rest 
them  on  the  surer  basis  of  incontrovertible  facts — on 
events  that  cannot  be  denied,  and  if  acknowledged, 
decisively  conclusive. 

There  is  no  man  so  impious,  as  to  deny  the  Provi- 
dence of  God  over  the  works  of  his  creation ;  and 
where  his  power  to  rule  is  acknowledged,  it  cannot 
excite  surprise,  that  his  mercy  and  goodness  should 
shield  the  oppressed  from  wrong,  and  cause  the  evils 
denounced  against  an  injured  and  insulted  people,  to 
recoil  on  their  enemies,  and  overwhelm  them  with  dis- 
appointment and  disgrace.  I  will  select  a  few  from 
the  many  instances  that  strike  forcibly  on  my  recol- 
lection. 

During  the  period  that  Boston  was  closely  invested 
by  the  American  forces,  the  news  of  the  restrictions 
imposed  on  commerce,  and  of  the  resolution  of  the 
Parliament  of  Britain  to  employ  Foreign  Mercenaries 
to  bring  them  under  subjection,  having  reached  the 
Colonists,  Congress,  to  profit  by  the  irritation  univer- 
sally excited  among  the  people,  strenuously  urged 
General  Washington  (then  lately  invested  with  the 
chief  command)  to  brave  all  dangers,  and  to  endeavour, 
by  every  possible  exertion,  to  effect  the  expulsion  of  the 
enemy.  It  was  at  once  perceived,  by  the  discerning 
eye  of  the  General,  that  to  possess  the  heights  of  Dor- 
chester, was  to  secure  the  decided  command  of  the 
city.  Accordingly  a  large  detachment  of  the  army 
proceeded  in  profound  silence,  on  the  night  of  the  4th 
of  March,  1775,  and  gaining  possession  of  them  before 
their  movement  was  perceived,  commenced,  with  in- 
defatigable exertion,  to  throw  up  entrenchments. 
Their  labour,  however,  was  not  without  interruption; 


326  INTERPOSITION  OF  PROVIDENCE 

the  noise  of  the  workmen  was  distinctly  heard,  and  a 
heavy  fire  kept  up  by  the  shipping;  but  as  they  aimed 
at  random,  without  a  correct  knowledge  of  the  posi- 
tion of  their  enemy,  with  little  effect.  The  morning's 
dawn  showed  to  the  besieged  the  danger  of  their  situa- 
tion, should  the  works  be  completed,  and  it  was  neces- 
sary either  to  dislodge  the  Americans,  or  evacuate  the 
city.  General  Howe  decided  for  the  attack.  The 
day  was  mild  and  serene,  not  a  cloud  obscured  the 
heavens.  His  troops  were  assembled,  and  distinctly 
perceived  preparing  to  enter  the  boats  which  were  to 
transport  them  to  the  Dorchester  peninsula,  when  the 
tide  ebbing,  and  wind  rising  suddenly,  so  as  to  blow 
with  extreme  violence,  the  passage  was  rendered  im- 
practicable. Delay  became  necessary,  and  proved  fatal 
to  the  hopes  and  designs  of  the  British  General,  for  a 
tempest  followed  the  gale,  and  a  heavy  and  incessant 
fall  of  rain  for  three  days,  increasing  the  difficulties  of 
enterprise,  he  saw  that  the  American  General  had 
given  such  perfection  to  his  works,  as  to  render  them 
«nassailable,  with  the  slightest  prospect  of  success. 
Compelled  to  renounce  the  attempt,  he  immediately 
abandoned  the  city. 

After  the  disastrous  battle  on  Long-Island,  and  the 
retreat  of  the  American  forces  within  their  lines  at 
Brooklyn,  there  can  be  but  little  doubt,  but  that  these 
might  have  been  carried  by  assault,  had  the  British 
General  profited  by  the  ardour  of  his  troops,  elate  with 
victory,  and  eager  to  reap  new  honours,  to  lead  them 
to  the  attack.  But,  happily  for  America,  he  adopted 
the  more  prudent  plan  of  seeking  superiority  by  regular 
approirohes,  and  of  waiting  the  co-operation  of  the 
fleet.  The  situation  of  the  Americans  in  their  camp, 
was  critical  in  the  extreme.  A  superior  enemy  in 
their  front,  their  defences  trivial  and  incomplete,  their 
troops  fatigued  and  discouraged,  and  the  English  fleet 
ready  (though  previously  prevented  by  a  North-EasI 


IN  AMERICAN  AFFAIRS.  327 

wind)  to  enter  the  river,  which  would  preclude  the 
possibility  of  retreat,  and  leave  them  no  alternative 
but  to  surrender.  General  Washington  viewed  the 
impendins  catastrophe,  and  at  once  determined  to 
evacuate  the  position  and  withdraw  to  New-York. 
The  passage  was,  in  the  first  instance,  prevented  by  a 
violent  wind  from  the  North-East,  and  the  ebbing 
tide,  which  ran  with  too  great  violence  to  be  encoun- 
tered, when  fortunately  it  veered  to  the  North-West, 
which  rendered  the  passage  perfectly  secure.  But,  in 
a  still  more  miraculous  manner  the  interposition  of 
Providence  became  manifest.  A  thick  fog  involved 
the  whole  of  Long-Island  in  obscurity,  covering  the 
retreat  of  the  American  forces,  while  the  air  was  per- 
fectly clear  on  the  side  of  New-York,  and  nine  thou- 
sand men,  the  artillery,  baggage,  cami>  equipage,  and 
munitions  of  war,  were  brought  off,  without  loss. 
The  rising  sun  dispersing  the  fog,  the  British  saw  with 
astonishment,  that  the  Americans  had  abandoned  their 
position,  and  were  already  beyond  the  reach  of  pursuit.* 
On  the  11th  of  October,  1777,  General  Gates  hav- 
ing received  information,  which  he  believed  correct, 
that  the  main  body  of  Burgoyne's  army  had  marched 
off  for  Fort  Edward,  and  that  the  rear  guard  only  was 
left  in  camp,  determined  to  advai'ce  with  his  entire 
force,  and  in  half  an  hour  to  attack  them.  At  the 
period  the  whole  country  was  covered  with  a  thick 

*  A  Clerical  friend  to  whom  I  related  tbis  interesting  fact,  made  the  follow- 
ing reply  :  "  The  interposition  of  Providence  in  the  affairs  of  nations,  has  been 
too  often  witnessed  to  be  called  in  question.  What  you  have  now  stated,  will 
bring  forcibly  to  the  mind  of  every  religious  reader,  the  wonderful  display  oC 
God's  Providence  to  the  Israelites  in  the  passage  of  the  Red  Sea.  '  The  pillar 
of  the  cloud  went  from  before  their  face,  and  stood  behind  them :  And  it  came 
between  the  camp  of  tjhe  Egyptians  and  the  camp  of  Israel ;  and  it  was  a  cloud 
and  darkness  to  them,  but  it  gave  light  by  night  to  these.'  But  for  (he  interpo- 
sition of  this  cloud  of  darkness  to  the  Egyptians,  they  would  have  overwhelmed 
the  Israelites  upon  the  sea-shore.  And  but  for  the  Providential  intervention  of 
thefog  upon  Long-Island,  which  was  ncloud  resting  on  the  earth,  the  Americaa 
army  would  have  been  destroyed,  and  the  hopes  of  every  patriot  bosom  extiit- 
guisiied,  perhaps  for  ever." 


328  INTERPOSITION  OF  PROVIDENCE 

fog.  General  Nixon's  Brigade  crossed  the  Fishkill 
Creek  in  advance.  General  Glover  was  on  the  point 
of  following  him,  when  he  perceived  near  his  column 
a  British  soldier,  making  across  the  stream  with  pre- 
cipitation. Concluding  that  he  was  a  deserter,  from 
whom  interesting  information  might  be  obtained,  he 
immediately  ordered  him  to  be  brought  forward  for 
examination.  Inquiring  into  particulars  relative  to 
the  state  and  position  of  the  British  army,  the  soldier 
replied,  "  You  will  find  them  encamped  as  they  have 
been  for  several  days  past."  "  But,  have  not  large 
detachments  been  sent  off  to  Fort  Edward,"  said  the 
General.  "  No,"  replied  the  deserter  ;  "  a  small  de- 
tachment left  our  camp  a  day  or  two  ago,  with  the 
hope  of  reaching  that  post,  but  finding  the  passes  on 
their  route  occupied  by  the  Americans,  returned  ;  and 
the  whole  army  are  now  in  camp."  Glover  promptly 
sent  advice  of  this  important  communication  to  Nixon, 
urging  his  retreat ;  and  mounting  the  soldier  behind  an 
Aid-de-Camp,  sent  him  to  General  Gates,  who,  hav- 
ing examined  him,  hurried  away  the  Aid-de-Camp,  the 
Adjutant-General,  and  others,  to  countermand  his 
former  orders,  and  prevent  the  attack.  General  Nixon, 
on  receiving  the  message  of  Glover,  immediately  or- 
dered a  retreat  ;  but,  before  he  could  recross  the 
creek,  the  fog  breaking  away,  the  enemy's  cannon 
opened  on  his  rear,  and  killed  many  of  his  men.  It 
was  a  critical  moment,  in  which  the  probable  fate  of 
the  army  was  at  stake.  A  quarter  of  an  hour  longer, 
might  have  caused  the  ruin  of  the  entire  brigade,  and 
given  a  turn  to  affairs  that  might  have  restored  the 
fallen  fortunes  of  the  British  army,  and  afforded  them, 
if  not  the  ability  of  progressing  in  their  route  to  Al- 
bany, a  safe  retreat  into  Canada. 

General  Burgoyne,  in  speaking  in  his  narrative  of 
the  expedition  under  his  command,  of  tliis  event,  says, 
"  The  disposition  of  the  enemy  being  to  pass    the 


IN  AMERICAN  AFFAIRS.  329 

Fishkill  in  different  columns,  and  to  make  their  great 
effort  on  the  plain,  they  must  have  formed  under  the 
fire  of  all  our  park  of  artillery  and  musketry  of  the 
entrenched  corps  on  the  hill,  and  the  musketry  of  the 
20th  Regiment,  which  was  at  easy  distance,  to  be  sup- 
ported by  the  Germans  in  front.  Add  to  this  would 
have  been  the  advantage  which,  though  always  wished 
for,  never  attained,  of  a  charge  upon  an  open  plain. 
I  cannot,  therefore,  sufficiently  lament  the  accident 
which  prevented  the  enemy's  design,  (which  so  far  ad- 
vanced, as  actually  to  have  passed  the  river  with  a 
column)  as  one  of  the  most  adverse  strokes  of  fortune 
during  the  campaign." 

After  the  victory  of  the  Cowpens,  heroically  gained, 
in  contradiction  of  all  calculation  of  probable  results, 
General  Morgan  took  immediate  measures  for  retreat, 
and  crossing  the  Broad  River  on  the  evening  of  the 
day  of  battle,  strove  by^  forced  marches  to  gain  the 
Catawba.  Lord  CornwalUs  lost  not  a  moment  in 
pursuit.  He  knew  the  importance  of  striking  the 
victor  before  he  could  gain  the  point  at  which  he  aim- 
ed, and  so  eagerly  and  perseveringly  followed,  that 
Morgan  had  scarcely  crossed  the  river  into  North  Ca- 
rolina, when  the  British  army  appeared  on  the  opposite 
bank.  This  event  happened  on  the  29th  of  January, 
1781.  A  very  heavy  fall  of  rain  during  the  night,  ren- 
dered the  Catawba  unfordable.  For  two  days  the 
swell  of  the  river  continued.  In  the  interim  Morgan, 
availing  himself  of  so  fortunate  an  occurrence,  sent  off 
his  prisoners,  (in  number  nearly  equal  to  his  effective 
force)  with  the  arms  and  stores  which  he  had  taken, 
and  happily  placed  them  in  security.  What  must  have 
been  the  result  but  for  this  Providential  rain?  Inevita- 
ble defeat,  and  ruin  to  Morgan  and  his  corps ;  and 
such  a  decided  superiority  gained  over  the  portion  of 
the  army  under  the  immediate  command  of  General 
Greene,  that  safety  could  only  have  been  obtained  by 

42 


330  INTERPOSITION  OF  PROVIDENCE 

retreat  into  Virginia;  and  the  Carolinas  and  Georgia 
must  necessarily  have  remained  (at  least  for  a  much 
longer  period)  in  the  possession  of  the  enemy. 

At  the  Yadkin,  as  at  the  Catawba,  the  same  propi- 
tious fortune  crowned  the  efforts  of  Morgan  ;  be  passed 
at  the  ford,  and  in  flats,  without  loss.  The  British 
appeared  in  sight  as  the  rear  of  his  force  was  landed, 
but  a  powerful  hW  of  rain  causing  a  sudden  swell  of 
the  river,  the  cherished  hopes  of  the  British  of  annihi- 
lating his  command,  were  again  frustrated,  and  pursuit 
was  abandoned.  One  hope  still  remained  to  Corn- 
wallis,  and  that  was,  by  rapid  movement  to  prevent 
the  retreat  of  Greene  into  Virginia;  and  it  must  for 
ever  redound  to  his  credit,  that  no  Commander  ever 
made  greater  sacrifices,  or  subjected  himself  and  his 
troops  to  severer  privations,  than  he  did  to  accomplish 
his  object.  His  wagons,  baggage,  and  every  superfluous 
article  that  could  impede  celerity  of  movement,  were 
sacrificed,  and  the  ardour  of  pursuit  maintained  with  a 
perseverance  almost  incredible.  But  against  the  fore- 
sight of  Greene  his  efforts  could  little  avail.  He  did, 
indeed,  overtake,  and  harass  the  retiring  American 
army ;  but  the  rear  was  so  well  protected  by  the  genius 
of  Otho  Williams,  commanding  a  selected  corps  of 
cavalry  and  infantry,  that  the  Dan  was  passed  without 
any  material  interruption,  and  the  army  placed  in  per- 
fect security. 

At  the  siege  of  York-Town  in  V^irginia,  Lord  Corn- 
wallis  perceiving  no  possible  chance  of  resisting,  suc- 
cessfully, the  combined  forces  of  America  and  France, 
his  advanced  redoubts  already  captured — the  greater 
part  of  his  artillery  dismounted — his  lines  of  defence 
crumbled  into  his  ditches — resolved  to  attempt  the  ac- 
complishment of  an  escape  by  crossing  the  river  to  the 
opposite  bank;  or  at  all  events  of  protracting  surrender, 
and  obtaining  more  favourable  terms  for  the  garrison. 
Already  a  part  of  the  troops  had  reached  Gloucester 


IN  AMERICAN  AFFAIRS.  331 

Point — a  second  division  was  embarked,  when,  in  the 
critical  moment  of  excited  hope,  when  every  thing 
appeared  to  favour  his  design,  a  storm  of  wind  and 
rain  arose,  which  at  once  disconcerted  all  his  mea- 
sures. The  boats  were  driven  down  the  river,  and  the 
army,  weakened  and  divided,  left  in  extreme  peril. 
To  increase  misfortune,  with  the  return  of  day,  a  most 
tremendous  and  destructive  fire  was  opened  by  the 
besiegers.  The  tempest,  however,  abated,  and  the 
boats  returning,  brought  back  the  division  of  the  army 
that  had  crossed  to  Gloucester,  and  Cornwallis,  so 
long  triumphant,  was  compelled  to  submit. 

I  will  bring  forward  one  other  instance.  At  the 
most  distressful  period  of  the  war,  General  Washing- 
ton wrote  to  Congress,  "  That  he  was  surrounded  by 
secret  foes,  destitute  of  the  means  of  detecting  them, 
or  of  getting  intelligence  of  the  enemy's  movements 
and  designs.  The  army  was  in  rags,  had  few  or  no 
blankets,  and  military  stores  were  in  the  dregs.  The 
troops  reduced  in  numbers,  must  retreat,  without  the 
means  of  defence  if  attacked,  and  would  probably 
disperse  from  the  want  of  subsistence  and  clothing  in 
an  inclement  season,  too  severe  for  nature  to  support. 
In  a  word,  we  have  lived  upon  expedients  till  we  can 
live  no  longer ;  and  it  may  truly  be  said,  that  the 
history  of  this  war,  is  a  history  of  false  hopes  and  tem- 
porary devices,  instead  of  system  and  oeconomy,  which 
results  from  it."  All  business  was,  in  consequence, 
suspended  in  Congress,  and  dismay  was  universal, 
since  no  supplies  of  the  requisitions  demanded  could 
be  provided. 

Mr.  Robert  Morris,  to  whom  the  United  States 
is  more  indebted  for  their  prosperity  and  happiness, 
than  to  any  other  individual,  with  the  exception 
of  General  Washington,  overcome  by  his  feelings, 
quitted  the  Hall  with  a  mind  completely  depressed, 
without  a  present  hope,  or  cheering  expectation  of 


332  INTERPOSITIOiX  OF  PROVIDENCE 

future  prosperity.  On  entering  his  Counting- House, 
he  received  the  welcome  intelligence,  that  a  ship  which 
he  had  despaired  of,  had,  at  that  moment,  arrived  at 
the  wharf,  with  a  full  cargo  of  all  the  munitions  of 
war,  and  of  soldiers'  clothing.  He  returned  to  Con- 
gress almost  breathless  with  joy,  and  announced  the 
exhilarating  good  news.  Nor  did  propitious  fortune 
end  here.  Accidentally  meeting  with  a  worthy  Qua- 
ker, who  had  wealth  at  command,  and  a  hearty  well- 
wisher  to  the  American  cause,  although  from  his  re- 
ligious principles  averse  to  war  and  fighting,  he  thought 
it  no  departure  from  the  strict  line  of  propriety,  to 
endeavour,  by  every  exertion,  to  awaken  his  sympathy 
and  obtain  his  assistance.  Assuming,  therefore,  an 
expression  of  countenance  indicative  of  the  most  poig- 
nant anguish  and  deep  despair,  he  was  passing  him  in 
silence,  when  the  benevolent  Quaker,  who  had  criti- 
cally observed  him,  and  marked  the  agitation  of  his 
mind,  feelingly  said,  "  Robert,  I  fear  there  is  bad 
news."  The  reply  was,  "  Yes,  very  bad  ;  I  am  under 
the  most  helpless  embarrassment  for  the  want  of  some 
hard  money."  "  How  much  would  relieve  thy  diffi- 
culties, Robert  ?"  The  sum  was  mentioned.  *'  But 
1  could  only  give  my  private  engagement  in  a  note, 
which  I  would  sacredly  pledge  my  honour  to  repay," 
rejoined  Mr.  Morris.  "  Cease  thy  sorrows,  then,  Ro- 
bert ;  thou  shalt  have  the  money  in  confidence  of  thy 
silence  on  the  subject,  as  it  regards  me."  The  specie 
was  procured,  immediately  remitted  lo  General  Wash- 
ington, and  saved  the  army. 

I  should  find  no  difficulty  in  producing  many  other, 
and  equally  satisfactory  proofs  of  the  opinion  advanced, 
but  shall  content  myself  with  asking — Is  it  possible, 
that  so  many  occurrences  should  be  considered  as 
casualties  depending  altogether  on  chance  ?  Do  they 
not  rather  appear  as  the  orderings  of  the  beneficent 
Ruler  of  the  Universe,  extending  his  protecting  arm 


IN  AMERICAN  AFFAIRS.  333 

over  a  people  whom  he  cherished,  and  checking  the 
wild  and  inordinate  ambition  of  the  oppressor  ?  It  is 
the  light  in  which  it  ought  to  be  viewed,  that  the  gra- 
titude of  the  nation  should  be  proportioned  to  the 
blessings  bestowed  on  it,  and  that  the  pride  of  success 
restrained  within  just  limits,  nor  overstepping  the 
bounds  of  moderation,  the  victors  in  the  contest  may, 
with  humility,  exclaim,  "  Not  unto  us,  but  unto  the 
powerful  protection  of  an  all  wise  and  beneficent  God, 
are  such  providential  escapes  and  unexampled  suc- 
cesses to  be  attributed." 


ROBERT  MORRIS. 

Having  but  slightly  mentioned  this  distinguished 
patriot,  both  justice  and  gratitude  require  that  I  should 
speak  more  particularly  of  his  extraordinary  powers  in 
the  department  of  Finance ;  the  extent  of  his  influence 
in  the  commercial  relations  of  the  nation,  both  at  home 
and  abroad,  and  successful  exertions  in  the  acccmplish- 
ment  of  its  independence ;  more  especially,  as  it  is  ac- 
knowledged, that  to  the  zeal  and  ability  of  Washington 
alone,  were  superior  honours  due.  My  information  in 
all  that  relates  to  this  distinguished  citizen,  is  derived, 
in  a  great  measure,  from  one  of  the  most  enlightened 
and  active  patriots  of  our  Revolution,  Judge  Peters ; 
but  better  authority  could  not  be  adduced,  since,  placed 
for  many  years  at  the  head  of  the  Board  of  War,  he 
possessed  the  most  perfect  knowledge  of  every  military 
transaction,  and  of  the  influence  of  Mr.  Morris,  in 
giving  efficacy  to  enterprise.  Independent  of  which, 
that  from  personal  friendship  and  constant  co-opera- 
tion, in  labouring  for  the  nation's  glory,  there  appeared 


354  MORRIS. 

but  one  object  and  one  mind  betwixt  them.  The 
Anecdote  which  follows  is  from  his  pen ;  it  would  be 
an  injustice  on  my  part  to  attempt  the  alteration  of  a 
single  sentence,  a  single  word. 

"In  1779,  or  1780,  two  of  the  most  distressing 
years  of  the  war,  General  Washington  wrote  to  me 
a  most  alarming  account  of  the  prostrate  condition 
of  the  military  stores,  and  enjoining  my  immediate 
exertions  to  supply  deficiencies.  There  were  no 
musket  cartridges  but  those  in  the  men's  boxes, 
and  they  were  wet;  of  course,  if  attacked,  a  retreat 
or  a  rout  was  inevitable.  We  (the  Board  of  War) 
had  exhausted  all  the  lead  accessible  to  us,  having 
caused  even  the  spouts  of  houses  to  be  melted,  and 
had  offered,  abortively,  the  equivalent  in  paper  of  two 
shillings  specie  per  pound  for  lead.  I  went  in  the 
evening  of  the  day  in  which  I  received  this  letter,  to  a 
splendid  entertainment  given  by  Don  Mirailles,  the 
Spanish  Minister.  My  heart  was  sad,  but  I  had  the  fa- 
culty of  brightening  my  countenance  even  under  gloomy 
disasters,  yet  it  seems  then  not  sufficiently  adroitly. 
Mr.  Morris,  who  was  one  of  the  guests,  and  knew  me 
W'ell,  discovered  some  casual  traits  of  depression.  He 
accosted  me  in  his  usual  blunt  and  disengaged  manner. 
*  I  see  some  clouds  passing  across  the  sunny  counte- 
nance you  assume — what  is  the  matter?'  After  some 
hesitation  I  showed  him  the  General's  letter,  which  I 
had  brought  from  the  office  with  the  intention  of 
placing  it  at  home  in  a  private  cabinet.  He  played 
with  my  anxiety,  which  he  did  not  relieve  for  some 
time.  At  length,  however,  with  great  and  sincere  de- 
light, he  called  me  aside,  and  told  me  that  the  Holker 
privateer  had  just  arrived  at  his  wharf  with  ninety  tons 
oflead^  which  she  had  brought  as  ballast.  It  had  been 
landed  at  Martinique,  and  stone  ballast  had  supplied  its 
place,  but  this  had  been  put  on  shore  and  the  lead 
again  taken  in.     *  You  shall  have  my  half  of  this  for- 


MORRIS.  335 

tunate  supply;  there  are  the  owners  of  the  other  half,' 
(indicating  gentlemen  in  the  apartment.)  '  Yes,  but  I 
am  already  under  heavy  personal  engagements,  as 
guarantee  for  the  Department,  to  those  and  other  gen- 
tlemen.' '  Well,'  rejoined  Mr.  Morris,  '  they  will  take 
your  assumption  with  my  guaranty.'  I  instantly,  on 
these  terms,  secured  the  lead,  left  the  entertainment, 
sent  for  the  proper  officers,  and  set  more  than  one  hun- 
dred people  to  work  through  the  night.  Before  morn- 
ing a  supply  of  cartridges  was  ready,  and  sent  off  to 
the  army. 

*'  I  could  relate  many  more  such  occurrences.  Thus 
did  our  affairs  succeed.  '  Per  varios  casus,  per  tot  dis- 
crimina  rerum.^  And  these  discrimina  rerum  occurred 
so  often,  that  we  had  frequently  occasion  feelingly  to 
exclaim, 

'  Quod  optanli  divum  promittere  nemo, 

*  Anseral — Fors  en !  attulit  ultra.' — Virgil." 

\^ 

But  at  once  to  give  the  stamp  of  excellence  to  his 
zeal  and  decided  influence  in  the  most  momentous 
concerns  of  the  nation,  I  will,  from  the  same  authority, 
show  in  how  great  a  measure  his  activity  decided  the 
fate  of  Cornwallis. 

"  It  may  not  be  generally  known,  but  it  is  an  incon- 
trovertible fact,  that  the  plan  of  the  campaign  for  the 
year  1781,  as  agreed  ui)on  by  General  Washington 
and  Admiral  De  Grasse,  was  to  aim  at  the  reduction 
of  New-York,  and  that  the  Southern  enterprise  was 
never  contemplated  until,  unexpectedly,  and  to  his 
extreme  surprise,  General  Washington  (by  the  French 
Admiral's  breaking  his  engagements  to  come  into  New- 
York  Bay,  and  announcing  his  intention,  through  the 
Admiral  commanding  the  squadron  at  Rhode-Island, 
to  enter  and  remain,  for  a  few  weeks,  in  the  Chesa- 
peake) was  obliged  to  change  the  whole  plan  of  opera- 
tions ;  which,  from  the  powerful  resources  of  his  mind, 


336  MORRIS. 

he  planned  and  performed  in  a  sudden  and  masterly 
manner.  An  account  has  been  published,  by  which  it 
appears  that  the  Count  Rochambeau  claimed  the  credit 
of  planning  the  enterprise  a  year  before  it  was  put  in 
execution.  A  military  character  who  had  rendered^ 
such  important  services  to  our  country  as  were,  by 
universal  consent,  attributed  to  him,  needed  no  bor- 
rowed plume.  He  avows  his  having  advised  Count  De 
Grasse  not  to  venture  into  New-York  Bay.  He  should, 
(had  he  acted  consistently  with  his  duty)  with  candour, 
and  in  due  season,  have  made  this  communication  to 
General  Washington ;  whereas,  the  first  intimation  of 
a  change  of  the  original  plan,  was  the  French  Admi- 
ral's letter  from  Rhode-Island,  which  the  General  put 
into  my  hands  a  few  hours  after  he  had  received  it, 
with  strong  expressions  of  surprise  and  resentment. 
Assuredly,  at  this  period,  the  expedition  to  the  South- 
ward had  never  been  thought  of;  but  as  Count  Rocham- 
beau's  countervailing  advice  had  been  attended  with 
successful  consequences,  he  adroitly  takes  advantage  of 
this  good  fortune  and  turns,  an  otherwise  unjustifiable 
interference,  into  personal  merit.  I  was  sent  by  Con- 
gress, under  the  belief  that  New-York  was  the  object,  to 
consult  with  General  Washington,  on  the  supplies  ne- 
cessary for  the  attack.  But,  the  apprehension  ex- 
pressed by  Count  de  Grasse,  of  danger  to  his  heavy 
ships,  should  they  enter  the  Bay,  and  the  avowal  of 
his  intention  to  sail  for  the  Chesapeake,  put  at  once 
an  end  to  deliberation  on  the  subject.  A  new  object 
was  now  to  be  sought  for,  on  which  the  co-operation 
of  the  allies  might  be  employed  with  effect.  I  was 
present  when  the  Southern  enterprise  was  resolved  on, 
(claiming  no  merit  or  agency  in  the  military  part  of  it) 
and  superintended  the  provision  of  every  thing  required 
by  the  General,  for  the  operation.  From  seventy  to 
eighty  pieces  of  battering  cannon,  and  one  hundred  of 
field  artillery,   were  completely  fitted  and  furnished 


MORRIS.  337 

with  attirail  and  ammunition,  althoui2;h,  when  I  re- 
turned from  camp  to  Philadelphia,  there  was  not  a 
field  carriage  put  together,  and  but  a  small  quantity  of 
fixed  ammunition  in  our  Magazines.  The  train  was 
progressively  sent  on  in  three  or  four  weeks,  to  the 
great  honour  of  the  oMcers  and  men  employed  in  this 
meritorious  service.  All  this,  together  ivith  the  expeiise 
of  provision  for,  and  pap  of  the  troops,  was  accom- 
plished on  the  personal  credit  of  Mr.  Robert  Morris, 
tvho  issued  his  notes  to  the  amount  of  one  million  four 
hundred  thousand  dollars,  which  were  finally  all  paid. 
Assistance  was  furnished  by  Virginia  and  other  States, 
from  the  merit  whereof  I  mean  not  to  detract.  But, 
as  there  was  no  money  in  the  chest  of  the  War  Office, 
and  the  Treasury  of  the  United  States  empty,  the  ex- 
pedition never  could  have  been  oi)erative  and  brought 
to  a  successful  issue,  had  not,  most  fortunately,  Mr. 
Morris'  credit,  superior  exertions,  and  management, 
supplied  the  indispensable  sine  qua  non,  the  funds 
necessary  to  give  effect  to  exertion." 

Such  important  services  rendered  to  his  country, 
while  they  entitled  Mr.  Morris  to  the  admiration, 
should,  at  the  same  time,  have  secured  him  some  dis- 
tinguished testimony  of  public  gratitude.  He  richly 
merited,  and  ought  to  have  enjoyed  in  old  age,  the  un- 
interrupted blessings  of  peace  and  happiness.  But,  at 
the  conclusion  of  the  war,  the  propitious  fortunes  that 
seemed  attendant  on  all  his  prior  enterprises,  forsook 
him.  He  engaged  in  deep  speculation,  to  the  entire 
ruin  of  his  pecuniary  concerns.  He  had  husbanded, 
and  with  success,  the  funds  of  the  public,  but  dissi- 
pated his  own.  Penury  and  wretchedness  closed  the 
scene  of  life.  The  memory  of  a  man  of  such  dis- 
tinguished utility  cannot  be  lost;  and  while  the  recol- 
lection of  his  multiplied  services  are  deeply  engraven 
on  the  tablet  of  every  patriotic  heart,  I  fondly  hope, 
that  the  day  is  not  distant,  when  some  public  monu- 

43 


538  MORRIS. 

ment,  recording  the  most  momentous  occurrences  of 
his  life,  and  characteristic  of  national  feeling  and  gra- 
titude, may  mark  the  spot  where  rest  the  remains  of 
Robert  Morris. 


To  the  instances  given  by  Judge  Peters,  of  the 
happy  arrival  of  supplies  for  the  army,  at  the  moment 
that  they  were  most  needed,  I  would  add  another  oc- 
currence derived  from  the  same  authority.  "  On  our 
entering  Philadelphia,  in  June  1778,  after  the  evacu- 
ation by  the  British  troops,  we  were  hard  pressed  for 
ammunition.  We  caused  the  whole  city  to  be  ran- 
sacked in  search  of  cartridge  paper.  At  length,  1 
thought  of  the  garrets,  &c.  of  old  Printing  Offices.  In 
that  once  occupied  as  a  lumber  room  by  Dr.  Franklin, 
when  a  printer,  a  vast  collection  was  discovered. — 
Among  the  mass  was  more  than  a  cart  body  load  of 
Sermons  on  Defensive  War,  preached  by  a  famous 
Gilbert  Tenant,  during  an  old  British  and  French  war, 
to  rouse  the  Colonists  to  indispensable  exertion. 
These  appropriate  manifestoes  were  instantly  em- 
ployed as  cases  for  musket  cartridges,  rapidly  sent  to 
the  army,  came  most  opportunely,  and  were  fired  away 
at  the  battle  of  Monmouth  against  our  retiring  foe. 


TIMOTHY  PICKERING. 

Where  the  shafts  of  malevolence  have  been  directed 
against  a  patriot  who  never  harboured  a  thought,  nor 
cherished  a  principle  inconsistent  with  the  honour  and 
interests  of  his  country,  though  they  fail  to  injure,  they 
do  not  the  less  offend,     It  is  most  grateful,  therefore. 


PICKERING.  339 

to  me  to  speak  of  the  services  of  a  patriot,  who,  though 
not  always  a  successful  candidate  for  public  favour, 
never  ceased  to  deserve  it.  Thoroughly  approving  the 
opinions  of  Judge  Peters,  I  will  give  them  in  his  own 
words.  Speaking  of  Colonel  Pickering,  he  says, — "  He 
is  too  well  known  to  need  any  eulogium  from  me.  He 
was  one  of  the  first  Commissioners  of  the  Board  of 
War;  and  a  most  diligent  and  able  co-adjutor  we  had  in 
him,  during  eighteen  months,  when  he  was  called  to 
the  field,  first  as  Adjutant,  then  as  Quarter-Master 
General.  I  have  known  him  intimately  forty-five 
years.  A  man  of  more  firmness  and  sterling  integrity 
never  lived.  Yet  he  has  been  persecuted  with  shame- 
less obloquy.  His  present  situation  gives  a  practical 
rebutter  to  some  gross  aspersions.  He  does  not  claim 
a  title  to  the  brilliant  fame  of  Cincinnatus,  but  he  emu- 
lates his  virtues  in  retirement;  and  now,  in  the  seven- 
ty-seventh year  of  his  life,  personally  labours  on  a  farm 
of  very  moderate  extent,  in  his  native  State,  where  his 
merits  are  best  known  and  justly  appreciated.  This 
moderate  establishment  he  was  enabled  to  purchase  by 
the  grateful  and  generous  assistance  of  an  association 
of  liberal  fellow-citizens,  who  bought  his  investment 
of  title  to  his  military  certificates  in  forest  lands  in 
Pennsylvania,  with  a  view  of  serving  him,  and  not 
themselves.  .  And,  to  their  immortal  honour,  those 
lands  have  been  transferred,  gratuitously,  to  the  widow 
and  orphans  of  the  late  eminently  distinguished  and 
poignantly  lamented  General  Hamilton,  another  of  our 
Revolutionary  patriots,  who  reaped  but  a  pittance  of 
the  fruits,  though  he  led  the  way  in  sowing  and  ma- 
turing the  harvest." 


340  STEUBEN. 


BARON  STEUBEN. 

It  is  with  peculiar  delight  that  I  bring  into  view  the 
services  of  this  excellent  soldier  and  inestimable  man, 
conscientiously  believing,  that  after  the  Generals  Wash- 
ington and  Greene,  and  the  Financier,  Robert  Morris, 
there  was  no  individual  in  the  United  States,  who,  in 
equal  degree,  contributed  to  the  victories  of  our  armies, 
and  the  establishment  of  our  Independence. 

It  was  my  good  fortune,  shortly  after  the  conclusion 
of  the  war,  to  be  presented  to  Baron  Steuben,  an 
officer  who  had  served  in  the  armies  of  the  United 
States  with  the  highest  distinction.  To  give  a  just 
idea  of  his  merit,  it  is  necessary  to  state  his  previous 
situation  in  Europe,  and  the  sacrifices  which  attended 
his  devotion  to  the  cause  of  Liberty.  Most  of  the 
foreigners  who  had  engaged  in  the  service  of  America, 
were  men  of  desperate  fortunes,  ambitious  to  acquire 
honour  and  emolument.  They  had  possessed  bur  in- 
ferior grade  in  the  armies  in  which  they  had  served, 
yet,  to  a  people  totally  unacquainted  with  the  art  of 
war,  their  knowledge  was  of  importance,  and  on  all 
occasions  rewarded  with  flattering  promotion.  It  was 
far  otherwise  with  Baron  Steuben.  At  the  commence- 
ment of  our  contest  with  Great  Britain  he  was  a  Lieu- 
tenant General  in  the  circle  of  the  German  Empire, 
called  Swabia,  and  commanded  in  chief  the  forces 
of  the  Prince  of  Beven.  He  was  also  a  Canon  of  the 
Church,  and  Aid-de-Camp  to  the  King  of  Prussia, 
with  a  revenue  from  these  offices  amounting  to  nearly 
six  hundred  pounds  sterling  per  annum.  By  entering 
into  the  service  of  the  United  States  his  rank  as  a  sol- 
dier was  dimished,  and  expectation  of  bettering  his  for- 
tunes for  ever  destroyed.  The  regulations  of  Congress 
(except  in  the  case  of  the  Commander  in  Chief)  admit- 


STEUBEN.  341 

ted  of  no  rank  superior  to  that  of  Major  General,  and 
the  poverty  and  distress  of  the  country,  destroyed  every 
hope  of  pecuniary  advantage.  Yet,  actuated  by  mo- 
tives superior  to  ambition  and  self-interest,  offering  his 
services  even  without  pay,  he,  by  unwearied  industry, 
activity,  and  perseverance,  called  into  service  the  army 
that  gave  liberty  to  America.  A  letter  received  from 
Judge  Peters,  of  Philadelphia,  to  whose  politeness  1 
am  proud  to  acknowledge  myself  peculiarly  indebted, 
supplying  many  of  the  most  interesting  Anecdotes  of 
my  collection,  says, — *'  Your  mentioning  the  name  of 
Baron  Steuben  recalls  to  my  memory  a  valued  friend, 
whose  merits  have  never  been  duly  appreciated.  Our 
army  was  but  a  meritorious  irregular  band  before  his 
creation  of  discipline.  His  Department  and  personal 
conduct  were  particularly  under  my  observation.  One 
fact,  to  prove  his  usefulness,  will  go  further  than  a 
thousand  words.  In  the  estimates  of  the  War  Office, 
we  always  allowed  five  thousand  muskets  beyond  the 
actual  numbers  of  ouV  muster  of  the  whole  army.  It 
was,  in  early  times,  never  sufficient  to  guard  against 
the  waste  and  misapplication  that  occurred.  In  the 
last  inspection  return  of  the  Main  Army,  before  I  left 
the  War  Department,  Baron  Steuben  being  then  In- 
spector General,  only  three  muskets  were  deficient,  and 
those  accounted  for." 

A  friend,  on  the  accuracy  of  whose  statements  I  can 
confidently  rely,  told  me  that  it  could  not  easily  be 
conceived  to  what  severe  trial  the  patience  of  the  Baron 
was  put  in  his  first  efforts  to  establish  a  regular  system 
of  discipline;  and  that,  on  one  occasion,  having  ex- 
hausted all  his  German  and  French  oaths,  he  vocife- 
rated to  his  Aid-de-Camp,  Major  Walker,  "  Vien 
Walker — vien  mon  bon  ami.  Curse — God  damn  dc 
gancherie  of  dese  badaiits,  je  ne  puis  plus.  I  can  curse 
^dem  no  more.'''' 


342  STEUBEN. 

In  private  life  his  virtues  were  exalted  ;  and  it  vi^ould 
be  difficult  to  determine,  whether  he  most  excites  our 
admiration  for  zeal  and  activity  as  a  patriot  and  sol- 
dier, or  tenderness  and  humanity  as  a  man.  As  I  hold 
his  character  in  high  veneration,  I  have  great  delight  in 
relating  an  Anecdote  which  I  received  from  General 
Walter  Stewart ;  the  truth  of  which  may  confidently 
be  relied  on.  After  the  capture  of  York-Town,  the 
superior  officers  of  the  allied  army,  vied  with  each 
other  in  acts  of  civility  and  attention  to  the  captive 
Britons.  Lord  Cornwallis  and  his  family  were  par- 
ticularly distinguished.  Entertainments  were  given  in 
succession  by  all  the  Major  Generals,  with  the  excep- 
tion of  Baron  Steuben.  He  alone  withheld  an  invi- 
tation, not  from  a  wish  to  be  particular,  nor  that  his 
heart  was  closed  to  the  attentions  due  to  misfortune  ! 
His  soul  was  superior  to  prejudice  ;  and,  as  a  soldier, 
he  tenderly  sympathized  in  their  fate,  while  poverty 
denied  the  means  of  displaying  that  liberality  towards 
them,  which  had  been  shown  by  others.  Such  was 
his  situation,  when  calling  on  Colonel  Stewart,  and 
informing  him  of  his  intention  to  entertain  the  British 
Commander  in  Chief,  he  requested,  that  he  would 
advance  him  a  sum  of  money  as  the  price  of  his  favour- 
ite charger.  "  'Tis  a  good  beast,"  said  the  Baron, 
"  and  has  proved  a  faithful  servant  through  all  the  dan- 
gers of  the  war  ;  but,  though  painful  to  my  heart,  we 
must  part."  Colonel  Stewart,  to  prevent  a  step  that 
he  knew  must  be  attended  with  great  loss,  and  still 
greater  inconvenience,  immediately  tendered  his  purse, 
recommending,  should  the  sum  it  contained  prove  in- 
sufficient, the  sale  or  pledge  of  his  watch.  "  My  dear 
friend,"  said  the  Baron,  "  'tis  already  sold.  Poor  N. 
was  sick  and  wanted  necessaries.  He  is  a  brave  fel- 
low, and  possesses  the  best  of  hearts.  The  trifle  it 
brought  is  set  apart  for  his  use.  My  horse  must  go, 
so  no  more,  I  beseech  you,  to  turn  me  from  my  pur- 


STEUBEN.  343 

pose.  I  am  a  Major  General  in  the  service  of  the 
United  States,  and  my  private  convenience  must  not 
be  put  in  the  scale  with  the  duty,  which  my  rank  calls 
upon  me  imperiously  to  perform." 

The  liberal  disposition  of  Baron  Steuben,  afforded  to 
his  Aid-de-Camp,  Major  North,  an  opportunity  of 
making  a  peculiarly  happy  repartee.  On  the  summit  of 
a  hill,  on  the  farm  occupied  by  the  Baron,  a  monument 
was  erected  to  the  memory  of  a  certain  Mr.  Provost, 
who,  on  account  of  his  constant  command  of  cash,  had 
been  styled,  when  living,  Ready  Money  Provost.  A 
gentleman  observing,  that  in  the  event  of  death,  the 
Baron  would  be  at  no  loss  for  a  snug  place  of  inter- 
ment. Major  North  replied,  "Then,  Sir,  his  disposition 
must  alter  with  his  state,  for  in  life  he  will  never 
tolerate  the  idea  of  laying  by  ready  money." 

Though  poor  himself,  the  Baron  had  a  number  of 
pensioners.  Of  one  of  these  I  must  relate  an  inte- 
resting Anecdote.  When  Arnold  apostatized  and  at- 
tached himself  to  the  British  Standard,  Baron  Steu- 
ben, at  that  period  Inspector  General  of  the  army,  to 
show  his  perfect  abhorrence  of  the  traitor,  commanded, 
that  every  soldier  who  bore  the  name  should  change 
it,  or  be  immediately  dismissed  the  service.  Some 
days  after,  finding  a  soldier  of  Connecticut,  who  had 
paid  no  attention  to  the  mandate,  he  insisted  that  he 
should  instantaneously  be  expelled  from  the  ranks. 
"  I  am  no  traitor,  my  worthy  General,"  said  the  sol- 
dier, "  and  will  willingly  renounce  a  name  that  the 
perfidy  of  a  scoundrel  has  for  ever  tarnished,  if  allowed 
to  assume  one,  which  is  dear  to  every  American  soldier. 
Let  me  be  Steuben,  and  be  assured  that  I  will  never 
disgrace  you."  "  Willingly,  my  worthy  fellow,"  re- 
plied the  Baron.  "  Be  henceforth  Steuben,  and  add 
to  the  glory  of  a  name  that  has  already  acquired  lustre 
by  the  partial  adoption  of  a  brave  man."  The  soldier, 
at  the  conclusion  of  the  war,  kept  a  tavern  in  New- 


344  •  STEUBEN. 

England,  exhibiting  a  representation  of  his  patron  as 
a  sign  ;  and  as  long  as  the  Baron  lived,  received  a 
pension  from  him  as  a  reward  for  his  partial  attach- 
ment. 

The  hospitality  of  Baron  Steuben  was  unbounded. 
Introduced  at  his  villa  by  k  friend,  to  whose  exertions 
in  Congress  he  considered  himself  peculiarly  indebted 
for  a  pension  settled  on  him  for  life,  he  treated  me  with 
marked  attention  ;  and  at  the  moment  of  my  departure 
said  with  great  politeness,  (Sunday  being  the  day  on 
which  he  kept  open  table  for  his  friends,)  "  Souvenez 
votis,  mon  jeune  ami,  pendant  votre  sejour  cl  New- 
York,  que  le  Dimanche,  est  tonsacre  a  Dieu  et  a  Steu- 
ben.^^ 

Dining  with  him  shortly  after  the  resignation  of  Mr. 
Robert  Morris,  as  Financier  of  the  United  States,  the 
cause  of  which  appeared  inexplicable  to  the  company 
present,  "  To  we,"  said  Baron  Steuben,  "  there  ap- 
pears no  mystery.  I  will  illustrate  my  sentiments  by 
a  simple  narrative.  When  I  was  about  to  quit  Paris 
to  embark  for  the  United  Slates,  the  better  to  insure 
comfort  when  in  camp,  I  judged  it  of  importance  to 
engage  in  my  service  a  cook  of  celebrity.  The  Ame- 
rican army  was  posted  at  Valley  Forge,  when  I  joined 
it.  Arrived  at  my  quarters,  a  wagoner  presented  him- 
self, saying  that  he  was  directed  to  attach  himself  to 
my  train,  and  obey  my  orders.  Commissaries  arriving, 
furnished  a  supply  of  beef  and  bread,  and  retired. 
My  cook  looked  around  him  for  utensils,  indispensable, 
in  his  opinion,  for  preparing  a  meal,  and  finding  none, 
in  an  agony  of  despair,  applied  to  the  wagoner  for 
advice.  '  We  cook  our  meat,'  replied  he,  '  by  hang- 
ing it  up  by  a  string,  and  turning  it  before  a  good  fire 
till  sufficiently  roasted.'  The  next  day — and  still 
another  passed,  without  material  change.  The  Com- 
missary made  his  deposit.  My  cook  showed  the 
strongest  indications  of  uneasiness  by  shrugs  and  heavy 


STEUBEN.  345 

sighing ;  but,  with  the  exception  of  a  few  oaths,  spoke 
not  a  word  of  complaint.  His  patience,  however,  was 
completly  exhausted;  he  requested  an  audience,  and 
demanded  his  dismission.  '  Under  happier  circum- 
stances, mon  General,'  said  he,  'it  would  be  my 
ambition  to  serve  you,  but  here  I  have  no  chanf-e  of 
showing  my  talents,  and  I  think  myself  obliged,  in 
honour,  to  save  you  expense,  since  your  wagoner  is 
just  as  able  to  turn  the  string  as  I  am.'  '  Believe  me, 
gentlemen,'  continued  the  Baron,  '  the  Treasury  of 
America  is,  at  present,  just  as  empty  as  my  kitchen 
was  at  Valley  Forge ;  and  Mr.  Morris  wisely  retires, 
thinking  it  of  very  little  consequence  who  turns  the 
string.^ " 

It  is  a  gratification  to  add,  that  as  a  tribute  to  his 
merit,  and  reward  for  his  important  services,  Congress, 
at  the  conclusion  of  the  war,  settled  on  him  a  pension 
of  two  thousand  dollars  per  annum  for  life;  and  that 
the  State  of  New- York  gave  him,  as  a  donation,  a 
very  fine  tract  of  country.  General  Washington,  who 
was  well  acquainted  with  his  liberality,  said,  on  this 
occasion,  to  a  friend,  who  repeated  it  to  me, — "  I  re- 
joice that  Congress  have  given  to  so  excellent  a  patriot 
an  independency,  and  by  an  annuity;  for  had  they  be- 
stowed a  specific  sum,  were  it  ten  times  the  amount, 
the  generous  heart  of  Steuben  would  keep  him  poor, 
and  he  would,  in  all  probability,  die  a  beggar," 


GENERAL  GATES. 

Although  blame  must  ever  attach  to  General 
Gates,  for  his  ungenerous  effort  to  rise  to  supreme 
command,  by  effecting  the  downfall  of  his  sui)erior,  en- 
eouraging^  intrigue,  and  countenancing  disaffection  the 

44 


346  GATES. 

more  readily  to  accomplish  it.  Although  the  world, 
too  apt  to  censure  from  appearances,  have  fixed  the 
stigma  of  precipitancy  upon  his  conduct,  which  led 
him  with  blind  confidence  in  the  superiority  of  his  own 
judgment  and  military  talent,  to  mock  the  admonition 
of  General  Charles  Lee,  warning  him  to  avoid  the 
chance  of  exchanging  "  The  Laurel  already  gained,  for 
a  wreath  of  Willow ;"  and  would  lead  us,  by  its  cen- 
sures, to  blame  with  asperity,  his  pointed  neglect  of 
the  prudential  advice  of  De  Kalb — "  Not  too  hastily 
to  risk  a  battle."  Yet,  let  us  do  justice,  even  when 
compelled  to  blame.  I  have,  from  the  information  of 
an  officer  high  in  his  confidence,  whose  word  is  truth, 
just  cause  to  believe,  that  it  was  not  his  intention  to 
risk  a  battle  when  compelled  by  Cornwallis  to  engage 
near  Camden.  His  avowed  object  was  to  choose  a 
position  in  the  vicinity  of  Lord  Rawdon,  and  to  fortify 
it,  so  that  if  the  British  General  ventured  to  attack 
him,  he  would  be  compelled  to  do  it  at  considerable 
hazard.  He  frankly  declared,  that  he  was  not  sufli- 
ciently  strong  in  Continental  force  to  risk  an  engage- 
ment. And  to  increase  the  strength  of  the  irregular 
army,  Colonel  Harrington,  an  officer  of  great  influence, 
was  ordered  into  North-Carolina,  and  Colonel  Marion 
detached  to  the  lower  Pedee,  to  rouse  as  many  effec- 
tive men  to  arm  in  his  favour  as  possible.  In  confir- 
mation of  this  statement,  the  Colonels  Porterfield  and 
Senff  were  actually  sent  forward  to  reconnoitre,  and 
fixed  upon  a  |)Osition  behind  Granny  Creek,  which 
was  esteemed  altogether  fitted  to  the  General's  pur- 
poses, having  the  creek  in  front,  a  deep  and  difficult 
swamp  on  the  right,  and  commanding  grounds  on  the 
left,  which,  strengthened  by  a  redoubt  and  abbatis, 
would  give  security  from  attack.  Had  Lord  Rawdon 
remained  in  command,  his  schemes  might  have  been 
crowned  with  success,  as  that  Nobleman  had  shown 
ISO  disposition  to  meet  him  ;   but  Lord  Cornwallis 


GATES.  347 

arrived,  whose  enterprising  spirit  at  once  discerned  the 
dan2;er  of  delay,  and  fixed  his  determination  to  fight. 
Remaining,  therefore,  but  one  night  in  Camden,  he 
marched  forward  to  battle,  justifying  the  wisdom  of 
his  measures  by  the  success  which  attended  them. 
Gates  was  actually  on  his  march  to  occupy  the  position 
fixed  on,  when  met  by  his  vigilant  enemy,  and  com- 
pelled to  risk,  in  an  unguarded  moment,  an  action,  for 
which  he  was  unprepared,  and  of  which  the  results 
were  more  disastrous  than  any  battle  fought  during 
the  progress  of  the  Revolution.  I  would  not  attempt 
to  palliate  his  faults  when  they  call  for  censure,  and 
freely  blame  his  disregard  to  the  reiterated  solicitations 
of  the  Colonels  White  and  Washington,  to  give  the 
sanction  of  his  name  and  authority  to  recruit  the  ca- 
valry ;  a  measure,  had  it  been  adopted,  that  might  have 
given  an  entire  change  to  the  current  of  success,  and 
at  all  events  have  saved  the  lives  of  hundreds,  who  fell 
under  the  merciless  sabres  of  Tarleton's  Legionary 
Cavalry. 

Lieutenant  Colonel  Lee,  the  accuracy  of  whose 
judgment  is  undeniable,  thus  adverts  to  this  fatal  and 
mistaken  policy, 

"  White  and  Washington,  who,  after  the  disasters  of 
Monk's  Corner  and  Lenud's,  had  retired  into  North 
Carolina  with  the  view  of  recruiting  their  regiments, 
earnestly  solicited  General  Gates  to  invigorate  their 
efforts  by  the  aid  of  his  authority,  so  as  to  enable  them 
to  advance  with  him  to  the  theatre  of  action.  Gates 
paid  no  attention  to  this  proper  request,  and  thus  de- 
prived himself  of  the  most  operative  corps  belonging  to 
the  Southern  army.  Although  unfortunate,  these  regi- 
ments had  displayed  undaunted  courage,  and  had  been 
taught  in  the  school  of  adversity,  that  knowledge 
which  actual  service  only  can  bestow.  It  is  probable, 
that  this  injurious  indifference  on  the  part  of  the  Ame- 
rican commander,  resulted  from  his  recurrence  to  the 


^g  GATES. 

campaign  of  1777,  when  a  British  army  surrendered  to 
him  unaided  by  cavalry;  leading  him  to  conclude  that 
Armand's  corps,  already  with  him,  gave  an  adequate 
portion  of  this  spficies  of  force.  Fatal  mistake!  It  is 
not  improbable  that  the  closeness  and  ruggedness  of 
the  country  in  which  he  had  been  so  triumphant,  did 
render  the  aid  of  horse  less  material,  but  the  moment 
he  threw  his  eyes  upon  the  plains  of  the  Carolinas, 
the  moment  he  saw  their  dispersed  settlements  adding 
difficulty  to  difficulty  in  the  procurement  of  intelligence 
and  i)rovisions;  knowing  too,  as  he  did,  that  the  enemy 
had  not  only  a  respectable  body  of  Dragoons,  but  that 
it  had  been  used  without  intermission,  and  with  much 
effect,  it  would  seem  that  a  discriminating  mind  must 
have  been  led  to  acquiesce  in  the  wish  suggested  by 
the  two  officers  of  horse.  To  the  neglect  of  this  salu- 
tary proposition  may,  with  reason,  be  attributed  the 
heavy  disaster  soon  after  experienced.  In  no  country 
in  the  world  are  the  services  of  cavalry  more  to  be  de- 
sired, than  in  that  which  was  committed  to  the  care  of 
Major  General  Gates,  and  how  it  was  possible  for  an 
officer  of  his  experience  to  have  been  regardless  of 
this  powerful  auxiliary,  remains  inexplicable.  Calcu- 
lating proudly  on  the  weight  of  his  name,  he  appears 
to  have  slighted  the  prerequisites  to  victory,  and  to 
have  hurried  on  to  the  field  of  battle  with  the  im- 
petuosity of  youth;  a  memorable  instance  of  the  cer- 
tain destruction  which  awaits  the  soldier  who  does  not 
know  how  to  estimate  prosperity.  If  good  fortune 
begets  presumption  instead  of  increasing  circumspec- 
tion and  diligence,  it  is  the  due  precursor  of  deep  and 
bitter  adversity." 

Yet  for  the  gallantry  and  good  conduct  displayed  in 
his  conflicts  with  Burgoyne,  which  caused  the  surren- 
der of  an  entire  British  army,  and  his  indefatigable 
industry  in  bringing  under  control,  the  refractory  spirit 
impatient  of  subordination,  manifested  in  every  depart- 


GATES.  349 

ment  of  the  army  before  Boston,  he  is  certainly  entitled 
to  the  gratitude  and  applause  of  his  country.  With 
particular  pleasure,  therefore,  we  view  the  magnani- 
mous conduct  of  the  Legislature  of  Virginia,  who 
sensible  that 

"  'Tis  cruelty  to  wound  a  falling  man." 

regardless  of  recent  misfortunes,  and  alone  remember- 
ing the  important  services  performed  by  him  in  happier 
days,  as  he  passed  through  the  city  in  which  they 
were  in  session,  presented,  by  a  select  Committee,  the 
following  complimentary  resolution  :    . 


«IN  THE  HOUSE  OF  DELEGATES. 

"  Richmond,  December  28th,  IfSO. 

"Resolved,  That  a  Committee  of  four  be  appointed  to  wait  upon 
Major  General  Gates,  and  to  assure  him  of  the  high  regard  and 
esteem  of  this  House  ;  that  the  remembrance  of  his  former  services 
cannot  be  obliterated  by  any  reverse  of  fortune ;  but  tliat  this  House, 
ever  mindful  of  his  great  merit,  will  omit  no  opportunity  of  testify- 
ing to  the  world,  the  gratitude,  which,  as  a  member  of  the  American 
Union,  the  country  owes  him  in  his  military  character." 

I  have  already  stated,  that  great  blame  was  attached 
to  his  ambitious  project  of  supplanting  the  illustrious 
leader  of  our  armies  in  command.  Evidence  may  be 
wanting  to  prove  him  a  principal  in  this  iniquitous 
conspiracy;  but  he  may  justly  be  said  to  have  encou- 
raged what  he  did  not  endeavour  to  prevent.  Yet  in 
the  hour  of  affliction,  contrition  fell  heavy  on  his 
heart,  and  the  honourable  manner  in  which  he  evinced 
it,  will,  I  fondly  hope,  cause  his  dereliction  of  duty  in 
the  first  instance,  to  be  buried  in  endless  oblivion. 

I  received  the  following  highly  interesting  Anecdote 
from  Dr.  William  Read,  at  the  period  of  its  occur- 


350  GATES. 

rence,   superintending    the    Hospital   Department   at 
Hillsborough  : 

."  Having  occasion  to  call  on  General  Gates,  relative 
to  the  business  of  the  Department  under  my  immediate 
charge,  I  found  him  traversing  the  apartment  which  he 
occupied,  under  the  influence  of  high  excitement ;  his 
agitation  was  excessive — every  feature  of  his  counte- 
nance, every  gesture  betrayed  it.  Official  despatches, 
informing  him  that  he  was  superseded,  and  that  the 
command  of  the  Southern  Army  had  been  transferred 
to  General  Greene,  had  just  been  received  and  perused 
by  him.  His  countenance,  however,  betrayed  no  ex- 
pression of  irritation  or  resentment ;  it  was  sensibility 
alone  that  caused  his  emotion.  An  open  letter  which 
he  held  in  his  hand,  was  often  raised  to  his  lips,  and 
kissed  with  devotion,  while  the  exclamation  repeatedly 
escaped  them — '  Great  man!'  '  Noble,  generous  pro- 
cedure!' When  the  tumult  of  his  mind  had  subsided, 
and  his  thoughts  found  utterance,  he,  with  strong  ex- 
pression of  feeling,  exclaimed — '  I  have  received  this 
day  a  communication  from  the  Commander  in  Chief, 
which  has  conveyed  more  consolation  to  my  bosom, 
more  ineffable  delight  to  my  heart,  than  I  had  believed 
it  possible  for  it  ever  to  have  felt  again.  With  affec- 
tionate tenderness  he  sympathises  with  me  in  my 
domestic  misfortunes,  and  condoles  with  me  on  the 
loss  I  have  sustained  by  the  recent  death  of  an  only 
son;  and  then,  with  peculiar  delicacy,  lamenting  my 
i^isfortune  in  battle,  assures  me,  that  his  confidence  in 
my  zeal  and  capacity  is  so  little  impaired,  that  the 
command  of  the  right  wing  of  the  army  will  be  bestow- 
ed on  me  as  soon  as  I  can  make  it  convenient  to  join 
him.' " 


CONWAY.  351 


GENERAL  CONWAY. 

There  was  no  officer  in  the  service  who  engaged 
with  greater  zeal  in  the  intrigue,  by  which  it  was  de- 
signed to  deprive  General  Washington  of  command, 
and  place  General  Gates  at  the  head  of  the  army, 
than  General  Conway.  Intrigue  was  the  cherished 
sphere  of  his  actions ;  ambition  the  predominant  passion 
of  his  heart;  and  he  appeared  but  little  scrupulous  as 
to  the  means  employed,  while  he  successfully  pursued 
his  plans  for  its  indulgence.  His  aim  was  to  vilify, 
and  by  the  degradation  of  others  to  advance  his  own 
fortunes.  We  accordingly  find  him  incessantly  harp- 
ing on  the  incapacity  of  the  Commander  in  Chief  to 
direct  the  operations  of  the  army  ;  and  denouncing  not 
only  the  ignorance  of  military  tactics,  displayed  by  the 
leaders  of  particular  corps,  but  the  total  want  of  know- 
ledge in  the  army  generally,  of  the  exercises  the  most 
essential  to  its  perfection.  Nor  were  his  censures 
without  effect.  He  gained  proselytes  in  Congress, 
and  through  their  influence  promotion.  But,  when 
convinced  of  the  injustice  of  his  conduct,  and  awed 
by  the  superior  virtue  and  talents  of  General  Washing- 
ten,  he  threw  aside  the  veil  of  prejudice  that  had 
obscured  perception.  The  handsome  manner  in  which 
he  made  his  apology,  does  him  high  honour,  and  ought 
to  be  recorded. 

Severely  wounded  in  a  duel  with  General  Cadwal- 
lader,  and  believing  death  inevitable,  he  thus  addressed 
General  Washington : 


"  Philadelphia,  February  23d,  ITT^- 
"  Sir, 

"  I  find  myself  just  able  to  hold  my  pen  during  a  few  minutes, 
and  take  this  opportmiity  of  expressing  my  sincere  grief  for  having 
done,  written,  or  said  any  thing  disagreeable  to  your  Excsdlency. 


352  CONWAY. 

My  career  will  soon  be  over  ;  therefore,  justice  and  truth  prompt  me 
to  declare  my  last  sentiments.     You  are  in   my  eyes  the  great  and 
good  man.     May  you  long  enjoy  the  love,  esteem,  and  veneration  of 
these  States,  whose  liberties  you  have  asserted  by  your  virtues. 
"  I  am,  with  the  greatest  respect, 

"  Your  Excellency's  most  obedient  and  humble  servant, 

«  PH.  CONWAY. 
''  His  Excellency  General  Washington." 


GENERAL  CHARLES  LEE. 

Another  and  more  virulent  enemy,  with  unremitted 
industry  sought  to  destroy  the  fair  and  unspotted  fame 
of  the  Commander  in  Chief,  and  to  impress  upon  the 
minds  of  the  people  an  opinion,  not  only  that  he  was 
unequal  to  the  duty  of  conducting,  successfully,  the 
enterprises  of  the  army  he  commanded,  but  that  the 
jealousy  of  his  disposition  induced  him  to  view  with 
jaundiced  eyes  the  claims  to  merit  of  military  men 
whom  he  knew  to  be  his  superiors  in  talent,  and  to 
leave  no  efforts  unessayed  to  accomplished  their  ruin. 

"  What  pow'r  so  strong 
"  Can  tie  the  gall  up  in  the  sland'rous  tongue." — Shakspeare. 

There  can  be  no  misapprehension  relative  to  the  in- 
dividual alluded  to.  Previous  to  his  captivity  I  am 
ready  to  allow,  that  General  Lee  rendered  the  most 
essential  service  to  America.  He  engaged  in  her  cause, 
and  in  defence  of  her  violated  rights,  with  ardent  en- 
thusiasm, and,  both  by  precept  and  example,  gave  en- 
couragement to  firm  and  intrepid  resistance.  But 
captivity  appears  to  have  broken  down  his  manly 
spirit,  and  in  the  place  of  that  bold,  frank,  and  open 


LEE.  353 

independency  of  chararter,  by  which  he  had  been  dis- 
tin2;uished,  to  have  made  him  the  slave  of  the  most 
malignant  and  degrading  passions,  and  to  have  given 
birth  to  a  caution  and  timidity  inconsistent  with  his 
natural  disposition,  and  altogether  unbecoming  a  cham- 
pion for  the  emancipation  of  an  oppressed  nation. 
He  cordially  hated  the  British ;  but  he  appeared  for  the 
first  time,  to  have  a  most  exalted  opinion  of  their 
spirit  for  enterprise.  Made  a  prisoner  himself,  by  a 
shameful  carelessness,  and  exposuse  of  his  person  to 
captivity,  he  was  constantly  looking  forward  for  some 
new  effort  of  prowess  that  would  increase  their  repu- 
tation for  daring  achievement.  He  made  comparisons 
betwixt  the  Giants  (for  so  he  styled  the  British)  and  our 
own  soldiers,  (the  Pigmies)  which  passed  not  without 
reproof.  He  called  on  Congress,  (then  sitting  at  York, 
in  Pennsylvania,)  to  order  a  survey  of  the  Susque- 
hanna, seventy-eight. miles  from  the  British  Lines,  in 
order  to  fortify  a  river  that  could  not  be  fortified,  and 
where  neither  prudence  nor  necessity  required  that  it 
should  be  done. 

With  regard  to  his  conduct  at  the  battle  of  Mon- 
mouth, I  shall  only  say,  (acquitting  him  thoroughly  of 
the  infamous  motives  that  have  been  alleged  against 
him)  that  had  he  obeyed  orders,  and  made  a  better  use 
of  the  picked  troops  of  the  Line  immediately  under  his 
command,  a  most  decisive  victory  might  have  been 
gained,  and  probably  the  war  itself,  promptly  and 
decidedly,  brought  to  a  conclusion.  From  this  moment, 
both  in  his  conversations  and  his  writings,  the  great 
aim  of  his  life  appears  to  have  been  to  lessen  the  repu- 
tation of  the  Commander  in  Chief  in  public  estimation. 
But  public  opinion,  and  that  of  the  men  who  were 
more  particularly  acquainted  with  facts  and  circum- 
stances, consigned  not  only  a  pamphlet  which  he  pub- 
lished, but  his  verbal  allegations  also,  to  the  coirtempt, 
and  I  might  add,  detestation  of  all  good  citizens.  The 

45 


554  LEE. 

best  refutation  that  can  be  given  to  his  calumnies  will 
be  found  in  the  extract  of  a  letter,  not  intended  by  the 
writer  for  publicity,  which  I  have  been  favoured  with 
from  one  of  our  moit  distinguished  patriots,  which 
shows  the  unadorned,  genuine  im|)ulses  of  a  heart  and 
mind  devoted  to  the  service  of  his  country,  without  the 
alloy  of  selfish  vain-glorious  views,  or  sordid  pursuits. 
It  was  written  to  a  confidential  friend,  and  dated 

'^  West-Point,  July  29th,  1779. 
"  Dear  Sir, 

"  I  have  a  pleasure  in  acknowledging  the  receipt  of  your 
obliging  favour  of  the  15th  instant,  and  in  finding  by  it,  that  the  au- 
thor of  the  Queries,  political  and  military,  has  had  no  great  cause 
to  exult  in  the  favourable  reception  of  them  by  the  public.  Without 
a  clue,  I  should  have  been  at  no  loss  to  trace  the  malevolent  writer  j 
but  I  have  seen  a  history  of  the  transaction,  and  felt  a  pleasure,  min- 
gled with  pain,  at  the  narration. 

"  To  stand  well  in  the  estimation  of  one's  country,  is  a  happiness 
that  no  rational  creature  can  be  insensible  of.  To  be  pursued,  first 
under  the  mask  of  friendship,  and  when  disguise  would  suit  no 
longer,  as  an  open  calumniator,  with  gross  misrepresentation,  and 
self-known  falsehoods,  carries  an  alloy  which  no  temper  can  bear  with 
perfect  composure. 

^  The  motives  which  actuate  this  gentleman,  are  better  understood 
by  himself  than  me.  If  he  can  produce  a  single  instance  in  which 
I  have  mentioned  his  name,  (after  his  trial  commenced)  where  it  was 
in  my  power  to  avoid  it ;  and  when  it  was  not,  where  I  have  done  it 
with  the  smallest  degree  of  acrimony  or  disrespect,  I  will  consent, 
that  the  world  shall  view  my  character  in  as  disreputable  a  light  as 
he  wishes  to  place  it.  What  cause  there  is,  then,  for  such  a  profu- 
sion of  venom,  as  he  is  emitting  upon  all  occasions — unless  by  an  act 
qf  public  duty,  in  bringing  him  to  trial  at  his  own  solicitation,  I  have 
disappointed  him  and  raised  his  ire — or  conceiving,  that  in  propor- 
tion as  he  can  darken  the  shades  of  my  character,  he  illuminates  Ms 
dam.     WTiether  these,  I  say,  or  motives  yet  more  dark  and  hidden, 


LEE.  356 

govern  him,  I  shall  not  undertake  to  decide  51  Dor  have  I  time  to  in- 
quire into  them  at  present. 

^'  If  I  had  ever  assumed  the  character  of  a  military  genius,  and 
the  officer  of  experience — if  under  these  false  colours  I  had  solicited 
the  command  I  was  honoured  witli — or  if,  after  my  appointment,  I 
had  presumptuously  driven  on,  under  the  sole  guidance  of  my  own 
judgment  and  selfwill — and  misfortunes,  the  result  of  obstinacy  and 
misconduct,  not  of  necessity  had  followed,  I  should  have  thought 
myself  a  proper  object  for  the  lash,  not  only  of  his,  but  the  pen  of 
every  other  writer,  and  a  fit  subject  of  public  resentment.  But,  when 
it  is  well  known,  that  the  comni^nd  was  in  a  manner  forced  upon  me, 
— that  I  accepted  it  with  the  utmost  diffidence,  from  a  consciousness 
that  if  required  greater  abilities,  and  more  experience  than  I  pos- 
sessed, to  conduct  a  great  military  machine,  embarrassed  as  I  knew 
our's  must  be,  by  a  variety  of  complex  circumstances,  and  as  it  were 
but  little  better  than  a  mere  chaos — and  when  nothing  more  was 
promised,  on  my  part,  than  has  been  most  inviolably  performed,  it  is 
rather  grating  to  pass  over  in  silence,  charges  which  may  impress  the 
uninformed,  though  others  know  that  these  charges  have  neither  rea- 
son nor  truth  to  support  them  :  and  that  a  simple  narration  of  fact^ 
would  defeat  all  his  assertions,  notwithstanding  they  are  made  with 
an  effi-ontery  which  few  men  do,  and  for  the  honour  of  human  nature^ 
ought  to  possess. 

"  If  this  gentleman  is  envious  of  my  station,  and  conceives  that  I 
stand  in  his  way  to  preferment,  I  can  assure  him,  in  most  solemn 
terms,  that  the  first  wish  of  my  soul  is,  to  return  to  that  peaceful 
retirement,  and  domestic  ease  and  happiness,  from  whence  I  came. 
To  this  end  all  my  labours  have  been  directed  ;  and  for  this  purpose 
have  I  been  more  than  four  years  a  perfect  slave,  endeavouring,  xmder 
as  many  embarrassing  circumstances  as  ever  fell  to  any  man's  lot  to 
encounter  ;  and  as  pure  motives  as  any  man  was  ever  influenced  by, 
to  promote  the  cause,  and  service  I  had  embarked  in. 

"  You  may  form  a  pretty  good  judgment  of  my  prospect  to  a  bril- 
liant campaign,  when  I  inform  you,  that  excepting  about  four  hun- 
dred recruits  from  the  State  of  Massachusetts,  (a  portion  of  which,  1 
am  told,  are  children,  hired  at  about  fifteen  hundred  dollars  each,  for 
oine  month's  service)  I  have  had  no  re-enfpr(:.rm<^nt  lo   this  army 


356  LEB. 

since  last  campaign  ;  while  our  numbers  have  been,  and  now  are, 
diminishing  daily,  by  the  expiring  terms  of  men,  death  and  deser- 
tion, &c.  &c.  &c." 

The  patriotic  friend  abcfve  alluded  to,  says, — "  In 
this  letter,  and  many  others  that  I  have  seen.  General 
Washington  consoles  himself  with  his  unaffected  piety 
and  reliance  on  Providence,  vihose  frequent  favours 
all  of  us  in  our  days  of  Revolutionary  tribulation  wit- 
nessed." He  adds — "  Discouraging  as  all  this  is,  1  feel 
more  from  the  state  of  our  cilrrency,  and  the  little  at- 
tention which  hitherto  appears  to  have  been  paid  to 
our  finances,  than  from  the  smallness  of  our  army:  and 
yet.  Providence  having  so  often  taken  us  up,  when 
bereft  of  all  other  hope,  I  tru^  we  shall  not  fail  even 
in  this." 


MAJOR  EVAN  EDWARDS. 

Among  the  many  meritorious  officers  who  gained 
distinction  in  the  service,  there  were  few  who  better 
deserved,  or  i»  a  more  extensive  degree  obtained  the 
respect  of  the  public,  and  affectionate  esteem  of  his 
military  associates  than  Major  Edwards.  I  will  not 
indulge  my  inclination  to  detail  his  talents  and  his  vir- 
tues, his  ready  wit  and  poignant  humour,  but  confine 
myself  to  a  single  Anecdote,  perfectly  characteristic  of 
the  man. 

The  Major  was  of  the  Baptist  persuasion,  and  origi- 
nally designed  for  the  Ministry,  but  imbibing  the  mili- 
tary spirit  of  the  times,  entered  the  army,  and  appeared, 
at  the  commencement  of  the  war,  as  one  of  the  de- 
fenders of  Fort  Washington.  A  brave  and  stubborn  re- 


EDWARDS.  357' 

sistance  could  not  save  the  post,  which  fell  into  the  hands 
of  the  enemy,  and  Edwards  became  a  prisoner.  I  have 
often  heard  him  make  a  jest  of  the  whimsical  and  fan- 
tastic figure  which  he  exhibited  on  this  occasion.  "  It 
was  not  to  be  wondered,"  he  said,  "  that  starch  in  per- 
son, emaciated  as  an  anatomy,  with  rueful  counte- 
nance, rendered  more  ghastly  by  misfortune,  my  dress 
partly  ijiilitary,  but  showing  much  of  a  clerical  cut,  that 
the  risibility  of  the  conquerors  should  have  been  very 
higbly  excited.  One  of  the  leaders,  however,  of  the 
snc;essful  assailants,  an*xious  to  excite  a  still  higher 
degree  of  merriment,  ordered  me  to  ascend  a  cart,  and 
as  a  genuine  specimen  of  a  Rebel  officer,  directed  that 
I  should  hf  paraded  through  the  principal  streets  of 
jNevv-York.  It  was  at  the  entrance  of  Canvass  Town, 
that  I  was  much  amused  by  the  exclamation  of  a  Scot- 
tish female  follower  of  the  Camp,  who  called  to  a 
companion — '  Quick,  quick  lassie,  rin  hither  a  wee, 
and  devarte  yoursel,  they've  cotch'd^a  braw  and  bonny 
Kt  bel,  'twill  de  ye  guid  to  laugh  at  him.'  Hooting 
and  derision  attended  my  whole  career,  and  at  the  con- 
clusion of  the  farce  I  was  committed  to  prison." 

In  the  eventful  changes  of  the  war  it  so  happened, 
that  tht^  very  individual  who  had  so  ungenerously 
abused  his  power  became  a  captive,  experiencing 
the  additional  mortification  of  yielding  his  sword  into 
the  hands  of  the  man  so  lately  treated  with  scorn- 
ful indignity.  Struck  with  the  singularity  of  the 
rencounter,  and  thoroughly  ashamed  of  his  former 
behaviour,  he  with  frankness,  said — '  You  are  the  last 
man.  Sir,  that  I  wished  to  meet  on  such  an  occasion, 
for  no  one  have  I  ever  so  wantonly  offended ;  from 
you  I  have  nothing  to  look  for  but  merited  retaliation.' 
'  Not  a  word  more  on  the  subject,  I  beseech  you.  Sir,' 
was  the  reply  of  Edwards,  '  the  surrender  of  your 
sword  destroyed  every  recollection  of  former  animosity; 
rest  assured,  therefore,  that  while  you  remain  with  us., 


^a  EDWARDS. 

it  will  be  equally  my  pride  and  pleasure  to  sooth  the 
pains  of  captivity,  and  to  render  you  every  service  in 
my  power.' " 

The  cheerful  disposition  of  Edwards,  rendered  him 
as  I  have  already  stated,  an  universal  favourite.  The 
occasional  indulgence  of  satirical  propensities,  pecu- 
liarly so,  of  General  Charles  Lee,  who  made  him  his 
Aid-de-Camp,  and  at  his  death  left  him  a  third  of  his 
estate.  I  never  knew  him,  however,  make  an  ill- 
natured  remark,  where  he  was  not  provoked  to  do  so — 
then  indeed,  he  spared  not. 

A  Colonel  in  the  army,  who  was  too  much  inclined 
to  be  poetical  in  his  prose,  telling  Edwards,  that  he 
had  heard  a  report  concerning  him,  that  had  greatly 
amused  him,  the  Major  assured  him  that  it  was  alto- 
gether without  foundation.  "  O,  no,"  said  the  Colo- 
nel, "  deny  it  not — it  must  be  true,  and  I  will  report 
and  give  it  currency."  "  Thank  you,  thank  you,  kind 
Sir,"  rejoined  Edwards,  "  your  doing  so,  will  save  me 
the  trouble  of  contradicting  it." 


Among  the  intelligent  men  connected  with  the  army 
of  the  South,  none  was  more  admired  in  society  than 
Mr.  Richard  Beresford.  He  pleased  by  his  eccentri- 
city, and  still  more  by  the  satirical  shafts  of  his  wit, 
which  he  threw  with  the  happiest  success.  His  ob- 
servations were  laconic,  but  ever  pointedly  severe  ; 
which  occasioned  Edwards  to  say,  "  I  like  that  cyni- 
cal humourist,  Beresford  ;  he  constantly  reminds  me 
of  one  of  your  snapping  turtle,  never  putting  his  head 
beyond  his  shell,  but  to  bite  at  somebody." 


SCHUYLER.  359 


GENERAL  SCHUYLER. 

Prejudices  that  it  would  be  difficult  to  account  for, 
having  rendered  General  Schuyler  unpopular  among 
the  troops,  Congress  were  induced  to  supercede  him, 
and  to  nominate  General  Gates,  commander  of  the 
army  opposed  to  Burgoyne.  The  patriotism  and  mag- 
nanimity displayed  by  the  Ex-General,  on  this  occa- 
sion, does  him  high  honour.  All  that  could  have  been 
effected,  to  impede  the  progress  of  the  British  army, 
had  been  done  already.  Bridges  were  broken  up — 
causeways  destroyed — trees  felled  in  every  direction 
to  retard  the  conveyance  of  stores  and  artillery.  Pa- 
trols were  employed  to  give  speedy  intelligence  of 
every  movement  of  the  enemy,  and  detached  corps  or 
light  troops  to  harass  and  keep  up  perpetual  alarm. 

On  Gates'  arrival,  General  Schuyler,  without  the 
slightest  indication  of  ill-humour,  resigned  his  com- 
mand, communicated  all  the  intelligence  he  possessed, 
and  put  every  interesting  paper  into  his  hands,  simply 
adding,  "  I  have  done  all  that  could  be  done  as  far  as 
the  means  were  in  ray  power,  to  injure  the  enemy, 
and  to  inspire  confidence  in  the  soldiers  of  our  own 
army,  and  I  flatter  myself  with  some  success  ;  but  the 
palm  of  victory  is  denied  me,  and  it  is  left  to  you, 
General,  to  reap  the  fruits  of  my  labours.  I  will  not 
fail,  however,  to  second  your  views ;  and  my  devotion 
to  my  country,  will  cause  me  with  alacrity  to  obey 
all  your  orders,"  He  performed  his  promise,  and 
faithfidly  did  his  duty,  till  the  surrender  of  Burgoyne 
put  an  end  to  the  contest. 

Another  Anecdote  is  recorded  to  his  honour.  Gene- 
ral Burgoyne,  dining  with  General  Gates  immediately 
after  the  Convention  of  Saratoga,  and  hearing  Gene- 
ra] Schuyler  named   among  the  officers  presented  to 


360  SCHUYLER. 

him,  thought  it  necessary  to  apologize  for  the  destruc- 
tion of  his  elegant  mansion  a  few  days  before,  by  his 
orders.  "  Make  no  excuses,  General,"  was  the  reply, 
"  I  feel  myself  more  than  compensated  by  the  pleasure 
of  meeting  you  at  this  table." 


QUAKER 
CONGRATULATIONS 


AFTER 


THE  BATTLE  OF  GUILFORD. 


Lord  Cornwallis,  immediately  subsequent  to  the 
battle  of  Guilford,  having  broken  up  his  encampment, 
and  recommended  his  wounded  to  the  humanity  of  Gen- 
eral Greene,  commenced  his  march  upon  Wilmington. 
Every  movement  was  anxiously  watched,  and  already 
Lee  was  on  his  flank,  ready  to  strike,  where  the  leasfe 
appearance  gave  the  hope  of  doing  it  advantageously. 
It  was  on  the  second  day's  march  that  the  Legion  was 
ai)proached  by  a  company  of  about  two  hundred  men, 
riding  on  pacing  ponies,  in  the  costume  of  Quakers, 
broad  brimmed  and  short  skirted,  and  headed  by  a 
marauder  in  full  military  dress,  on  their  way  to  con- 
gratulate his  Lordship  on  the  brilliancy  and  importance 
of  his  victory.  The  same  mistake  was  again  made 
that  led  to  the  defeat  of  Pyle.  Lee  and  his  Dragoons 
were  mistaken  for  Tarleton  and  his  Legion ;  and  these 
Sons  of  Peace  supposing  that  they  might  speak  with 
imi)unity,  were  as  free  of  invective,against  the  suporters 
of  American  principles,  as  if  they  had  been  blasphemers 
from  their  cradles.  Their  leader  was  pre-eminently 
distinguished  by  his  abuse  and  insolence,  which  he 

46 


362  QUAKER  CONGRATULATIONS. 

ultimately  carried  to   such  extremity,  and  so  highly 
exasperated  the  surrounding  Dragoons  with  whom  he 
conversed,  that,  yielding  to  the  dominion  of  passion, 
one  of  them  drew  forth  a  pistol,  and /atally  discharging 
it,  laid  him  dead  at  his  feet.    The  consternation  which 
followed  cannot  well  be  conceived  of;  fear  paralized 
exertion ;  the  whole  party,  stupified  and  silent,  remain- 
ed as  if  awaiting  annihilation.     Lee,  who  was  ever 
eloquent,  and  conspicuously  so  when  called  on  to  speak 
on  the  spur  of  occasion,  now  advanced,  and  bidding 
them  dismiss  every  apprehension  for  their   personal 
safety,  harangued  them  for  a  full  half  hour  in  such  im- 
pressive and  pathetic  language,  pointing  out  the  folly 
and  wickedness  of  their  procedure,  and  representing  the 
vengeance  that  would  inevitably  follow  the  repetition 
of  their  offence,  that  one  and  all  avowed  their  sense  of 
error,  and  promised  to  sin  no  more.     "  Retire,  then," 
said  Lcc,  "  seek  your  homes,  and  secure  safety  by  sub- 
mission."    The  troop  immediately  wheeled,  and  for  a 
short  distance  moved  forward  with  regularity,  but  as  if 
the  words  scmve  qui  pent  had  been  given,  first  one,  and 
then  another  squad,  broke  off  from  the  main  body,  and 
in  a  little,  turn  as  you  list,  a  Quaker  was  seen  pushing 
forward  his  tackey  to  the  full  bent  of  his  speed ;  and  he 
appeared  to  consider  himself  the    most   happy  who 
could  fastest  fly  from  an  enemy,  who,  though  humane, 
might  prove  capricious,   and  end   the  interview  in 
%        slaughter. 


FAILURE  OF  THE  CONTEMPLATED  ATTACK  ON 
JOHN'S  ISLAND. 


Lieutenant  Colonel  Lee,  in  his  Memoirs,  ap- 
pears to  consider  the  circumstance  which  occasioned 
the  abandonment  of  this  enterprise,  as  one  of  the  most 
unfortunate  of  the  war.  He  had  anticipated  a  bril- 
liant Partisan  stroke,  when  by  an  unlooked  for  accident, 
his  views  were  completely  blasted.  I  shall  record  it, 
if  only  to  show,  that  in  the  occurrences  of  war,  destruc- 
tion is  often  at  hand,  when  conviction  exists  of  the 
most  perfect  security. 

Colonel  Craig,  one  of  the  most  distinguished  officers 
in  the  British  service,  was  encamped  with  a  conside- 
rable force  near  the  centre  of  the  Island,  firmly  believ- 
ing it  impossible  for  him  to  be  surprised  by  an  enemy. 
By  the  aid  of  numerous  gallies  and  gun-boats,  he  had 
the  entire  command  of  the  navigation,  and  all  the 
small  craft  in  the  vicinity  were  in  his  possession. 

At  the  Church  Flats,  the  River  Stono  dividing  the 
Island  from  the  Main,  was  known  to  be  fordable  at 
low  water  ;  but,  to  command  this  pass  two  stout  gal- 
lies were  stationed,  and  so  near  to  each  other,  as  to 
admit  of  conversation  betwixt  their  crews,  while  the 
sentinels  every  half  hour  passed  the  watch  words — 
"All's  well!" 

To  strike  at  the  command  of  Colonel  Craig,  two 
powerful  detachments  were  selected  and  placed  under 
the  orders  of  Lee  and  Laurens.  Had  these  reached 
the  Island,  they  were  sufficient  to  ensure  victory,  and 


364  CONTEMPLATED  ATTACK,  &c. 

they  would  have  had  the  advantage  of  falling  upon  an 
enemy,  in  all  probability  careless  from  a  false  security, 
and  altogether  unprepared  for  action.  But,  unfortunate- 
ly in  the  ap{)roach  to  the  river,  the  division  of  Laurens, 
commanded  by  Major  James  Hamilton,  as  good  and 
intrepid  an  officer  as  any  in  the  service,  being  badly 
guided,  missed  its  way,  and  was  lost  in  the  woods. 
The  division  of  Lee,  under  the  guidance  of  Captain 
Freer,  a  patriotic  Islander,  arrived  at  the  pass  at  the 
happiest  moment.  The  tide  w^as  out,  and  Captain 
Budolph,  who  led  the  van  with  the  Legion  Infantry, 
passed  the  river  between  the  gallies,  undiscovered. 
The  remainder  were  ready  to  follow,  when  some  un- 
easiness being  entertained  on  account  of  the  delay  of 
Laurens'  division,  a  halt  was  ordered.  Thus  exposed, 
the  troops  remained  above  an  hour,  the  British  senti- 
nels on  each  side  continuing  the  cry  of  "  All 's  well !" 
The  rapid  flow  of-the  tide  soon  increased  the  difficulty 
of  passing  so  much,  the  water  being  up  to  the  breast 
of  the  tallest  man,  that  Rudolph  was  recalled  ;  and  to 
the  mortification  of  all  concerned,  the  expedition  ended 
in  retreat. 

What  has  been  suggested  of  the  consequences  which 
would  have  resulted,  had  the  American  forces  passed 
the  river,  is  justified  by  the  conduct  of  the  enemy  ;  for 
on  the  next  day,  being  apprized  of  the  contemplated 
attack,  the  whole  force,  which  was  dispersed  over  the 
Island,  was  collected,  and  with  great  precipitation  re- 
moved to  Charleston. 


CONTEMPLATED  MUTINY  OF  THE  ARMY  UNDER 
GENERAL  GREENE. 


When  the   Continental    Army  reached   the  lower 
country,  in  the  fall  1781,  and  encamped  at  the  Round- 
O,  the  means  of  subsistance  were  abundant.     Plenty 
be^gat  waste,   and  the  consumption  of  every  essential 
article  of  provision  and  forage,  was   so  extravagant, 
that  before  the  end  of  the  winter,  the  difficulty  of  pro- 
curing food  made  it  doubtful,  whether  it  would  not  be 
necessary  again  to  retire  into  the  interior.     The  sea- 
son was  altogether  unpropitious  to  the  transportation 
of  supplies.     The  rains  were  incessant.     This  caused 
the  good    humoured    Linton   of   Washington's,   with 
more  truth  than  politeness,  to  say  to  a  lady  who  asked 
him,  "  How   he  liked  the  low  country  of  Carolina  ? 
"  Were  I  a  duck,  a  crane,   or  a  curlew,   I  might  be 
qualified   to  give  you  an  answer.  Madam  ;  for,  since 
my  arrival  in  it,   the  face  of  the  earth  has  never  been 
within  my  view."     These  discouraging  circumstances, 
the  absolute  want  of  decent  clothing — the   increase 
of  disease,  and  dangerous  predicament  of  having   no 
active  employment,  gave  existence  to  that   spirit   of 
mutiny  of  which  I  shall  now  speak.     I  wish  that  this 
disgraceful  event  could  be  blotted  from  our  history  ; 
but,  as  it  did  happen,  there  are  circumstances  connected 
with  it,  that  deserve  to  be  recorded. 

The  mutiny  of  the  Pennsylvania  Line  in  Jersey, 
had  spread  dismay  throughout  the  continent,  and  was 
regarded  by  the  enemy  as  the  prelude  to  universal  re- 


366  CONTEMPLATED  MUTINY,  &c. 

volt.     Their  disappointment  was  great,  for  a  redress 
of  grievances  was  all  that  was  sought  for  ;    and  satis- 
faction being  judiciously  offered  to  the  insurgents  by 
our  Government,  they  gave  up  the  emissaries  who  had 
been  sent  from  New-York,  to  encourage  the  spirit  of 
opposition,  and  cheerfully  returned  to  their  duty.     No 
immediate  evil  was  the  result  ;  but  this  example  of 
insubordination  was,  at  a  later  period,  productive  of 
alarming  consequences.     Destitute,  as  I  have  stated, 
of  clothing — stinted  in  food — severely  afflicted  by  dis- 
ease, discontent  began  to  manifest  itself  in  the  most 
appalling  colours.     The  first  indication  of  it  that   I 
recollect,  was  a  placard  near  the  quarters  of  General 
St.  Clair,  who  commanded  the  Pennsylvanians,  to  this 
effect — "  Can  soldiers   be   expected  to  do  their  duty, 
clothed  in  rags,  and  fed  on  rice."     Suspicion  attaching 
to  a   few   disorganizing   characters,   they,  to   escape 
punishment,  went  over  to  the  enemy,  and  tranquillity 
was,  for  a   time,  restored.      The  embers,   however, 
that  had  been  smothered,  but  not  extinguished,   were 
speedily  revived,  and  were  ready  to  burst  into  flame, 
through  the  intrigues  of  a  Sergeant  of  the  Pennsyl- 
vanians, and  two  domestics  attached  to  the  family  of 
General  Greene,  who  opened  a  correspondence   with 
the  enemy,  and  engaged,  on  a  given  day,  to  deliver  up 
their  commander  and  every  officer  of  distinction.     A 
female,  who  bad  noticed  the  murmuring  of  the  dis- 
affected, and  unguarded  expressions  of  the  ringleader, 
occasioned  the  discovery  of  the  plot.    The  light  troops, 
who  had  for  some  little  time  been  indulged  with  com- 
fortable quarters   in   the   rear,    to    recover  from  the 
fatigues  of  severe  service,  were  immediately  brought 
forward.     To  them,  not  a  shade  of  suspicion  attached. 
Washington's,  Gill's,    and  the  Legion  Cavalry,  took 
their  station  in  advance.      The  Delawares,  Smith's 
company  of  Virginia  Regulars,   and  Legion  Infantry, 
were  drawn  nearer  to  Head-Quarters.     A  troop  of 


CONTEMPLATED  MUTINY,  &c.  3^7 

horse  was  pushed  forward  to  watch  the  motions  of  the 
enemy.  The  Sergeant  was  arrested,  tried,  and  ex- 
ecuted. The  fate  of  the  country  was  suspended  by  a 
thread — destruction  would  inevitably  have  followed 
irresolution.  Greene  was  sensible  of  it,  and  strik- 
ing with  decision,  gave  a  death  blow  to  faction,  and 
every  symptom  of  revolt.  It  was  a  melancholy 
sight,  awful  indeed,  and  appalling,  to  behold  a  youth, 
an  Apollo  in  shape,  as  fine  a  military  figure  as  ever 
trod  the  earth,  led  forth  to  pay  the  penalty  of 
his  perfidy.  He  walked  with  a  firm  step,  and  com- 
posed countenance,  distributing  as  he  passed  along, 
to  such  of  his  companions  as  approached  him,  seve- 
ral articles  of  his  clothing,  at  that  period  precious 
legacies.  His  hat  he  gave  to  one,  his  coat  to  another, 
his  sleeve  buttons  to  a  third.  Every  countenance  ex- 
pressed sorrow,  but  not  a  murmur  was  heard.  Arrived 
at  the  fatal  spot,  he  in  few  words,  but  in  the  most  im- 
pressive manner,  called  upon  his  comrades,  "  not  to 
sully  their  glory,  nor  forego  the  advantages  they  would 
speedily  realize  from  the  termination  of  (he  war;  and  if 
a  thought  of  desertion  was  harboured  in  their  bosoms,  at 
once  to  discard  it.  I  have  no  cause  (he  added)  to  com- 
pjain  of  the  Court;  I  certainly  spoke  imprudently,  and 
from  the  evidence  given  of  my  guilt,  they  could  not 
have  acted  otherwise."  He  then  gave  the  signal  to 
the  platoon  selected  from  his  own  corps — was  fired  on, 
and  expired.  Great  pains  had  been  taken  by  General 
Greene,  as  soon  as  suspicion  was  excited,  to  make  a 
full  discovery.  As  soon,  however,  as  sufficient  evidence 
was  obtained,  he  waited  not  to  ascertain  the  extent  of 
the  evil,  but  by  a  decided  step  crushed  it  effectually. 
The  delay  of  a  few  hours  must  have  occasioned  the 
loss  of  our  officers,  and  probably  the  death  of  every 
faithful  soldier.  O'Neal  had  been  sent  to  watch  the 
motions  of  the  enemy,  accompanied  by  Middleton  as 
his  second,  and  Captain  Rudolph,  who  had  volunteer- 


368  CONTEMPLATED  MUTINY,j&c. 

ed.    Passing  Bacon  and  Eagle  bridges,  they  patrolled 
the  road  for  several  miles  below  Dorchester,  and  see- 
ing no  appearance  of  any  party  without  their  lines, 
wheeled  his  troop  to  return.    Rudolph,  with  two  Dra- 
goons,  was   in  advance.     On  a  sudden  three  well- 
mounted  Black   Troopers  appeared  in  front.     These 
were  immediately  charged.     The  chief  fell  by  the  arm 
of  Pope,  a  soldier  of  distinguished  gallantry.  Rudolph 
dismounted  the  second,  and  made  him  a  prisoner;  the 
third  escaped.     The  captive  being  asked  if  the  British 
Cavalry  were  out  in  force,  declared — "  That  a  single 
troop,  under  the  command  of  Captain  Dawkins,  had 
gone  by  the  way  of  Goose  Creek  Bridge,  a  few  miles 
higher,  and  were  to  return  by  the  way  of  Dorchester." 
Knowing  the  firmness  of  Rudolph,  the  valour  of  Mid- 
dleton,  and  tried  bravery  of  his  troop,  O'Neal  pushed 
forward  in    full  expectation  of  a  com{)lete  triumph. 
Dawkins  was  soon  discovered  passing  through  the  vil- 
lage of  Dorchester,  and  bearing  down  upon  him.    The 
charge  was  sounded  on  both  sides,  and  a  fierce  con- 
flict began ;  but  before  any  material  advantage  could 
be  gained,  the  bugle  was  heard  from  another  quarter, 
and  infantry  rose  in  every  direction.     A  road  leading 
towards  Goose   Creek,  afforded  the  only  chance  of 
retreat:  this  was  immediately  taken,  and  though  ex- 
posed to  a  heavy  fire,  the  officers  and  most  of  the  pri- 
vates escaped  without  injury.     Nine  men  and  fifteen 
horses  of  the  troop  fell  into  the  hands  of  the  enemy. 
Twelve  of  the  traitors  attached  to  the  Main  Army, 
quitted  the  standard  of  their  country,  and  reached  the 
British  Lines  in  safety.     The  spirit  of  discontent  ap- 
peared to  fly  with  them.     Till  the  final  departure  of 
the  enemy  no  sign  of  dissatisfaction  was  ever  again 
discovered. 


EVACUATION  OF  CHARLESTON. 


Long  had  the  departure  of  the  enemy  been  looked 
for  with  anxious  solicitude  ;  yet  still  was  it  protracted, 
till  many  adopted  the  opinion  of  General  Gadsden, 
who,  whenever  the  intention  of  abandoning  the  Capi- 
tal was  mentioned,  said,  "  I  will  never  believe  that 
they  are  sincere  in  their  intention  to  quit  us,  till  they 
have  fairly  crossed  the  bar  of  Charleston."  At  length, 
on  the  evening  of  the  12th  December,  1782,  the  Le- 
gion were  ordered  to  cross  the  Ashley  and  move  for- 
ward towards  the  British  Lines,  and  to  endeavour  as 
much  as  possible  to  harass  the  retiring  garrison. 

A  detachment  of  Refugees,  know  from  circum- 
stances to  have  left  the  city  expressly  to  murder  Mr. 
John  Parker  of  Goose  Creek,  who  had,  but  a  few 
nights  before,  in  defending  his  house  against  their 
attacks,  killed  their  leader,  Robins,  were  met  with,  and 
driven  back  so  much  under  the  influence  of  terror,  that 
they  eluded  the  pursuit  even  of  our  swiftest  coursers. 
They  were  entering  the  plantation  at  one  gate,  when 
the  Legion  reached  the  house  by  another.  Sensible 
that  their  motives  could  not  be  misunderstood,  (their 
threats  had  indeed  declared  them)  they  shrunk  from 
action  and  fled. 

Pedblusque  titnor  addkUt  alis. 

A  considerabhj  detachment  of  infantry  that  had 
crossed  during  the  night  at  Ashley  Ferry,  under  the 
command  of  Major  James  Hamilton,  and  a  company 

47 


370     EVACUATION  OF  CHARLESTON. 

of  artillery  under  Captain  Singleton,  joined  at  day 
ligh't,  and  the  whole  under  the  direction  of  General 
AVayne,  moved  towards  the  British  out-post  at  Shu- 
bricks  ;  but,  before  any  indication  of  hostility  could  be 
shown,  a  gentleman  of  respectability  advancing,  pro- 
posed on  the  part  of  General  Leslie,  "  That  no  impe- 
diment should  be  offered  to  embarkation  ;  in  which 
case,  he  pledged  himself  that  no  injury  should  be  done 
to  the  town.  But,  in  the  event  of  attack,  he  siiould 
use  every  means  to  insure  security,  and  not  be  answer- 
able for  any  consequences  that  might  follow."  Gen- 
eral Wayne  gave  a  ready  consent  to  the  proposition, 
and  immediately  withdrew  his  troops  to  Accabee — not 
to  refresh  them,  for  they  were  totally  destitute  of  food 
—but  to  prepare  themselves,  to  make  as  handsome  an 
appearance  as  circumstances  would  admit  of,  on  the 
following  morning.  On  the  1  kh,  at  day-break,  a  gun 
was  fired  to  api)rize  the  British  of  the  approach  of  the 
American  force,  which  now  moved  forward  towards 
the  city.  Arrived  at  their  lines,  as  the  ramparts  were 
nrounted,  the  Yaugers  were  seen  retiring  about  fifty 
yards  in  front  ;  and  some  of  our  officers,  not  in  com- 
mand, rode  forward,  and  conversed  with  those  of  the 
army  who  were  embarking.  Orders  had  been  issued 
by  General  Leslie,  for  the  inhabitants  to  remain  in 
their  houses,  and  so  strictly  obeyed,  that  the  Main 
Guard- House  had  actually  been  taken  possession  of,  by 
Captain  Rouvrey  of  the  Maryland  Line,  before  it  was 
known  that  our  troops  were  in  the  city.  It  appeared, 
however,  that  the  enemy  were  not  without  suspicion, 
that  they  might  receive  a  parting  blow — for  gallies  in 
the  Ashley  and  Cooper  Rivers,  dropped  down  in  a  line 
with  our  troops,  the  whole  length  of  the  Neck  ;  and  in 
front  of  the  15ay,  as  the  cavalry  moved  in  their  view, 
the  men  of  war  and  armed  vessels  were  ranged,  with 
lighted  matches,  and  every  preparation  for  action  ;  but 


EVACUATION  OF  CHARLESTON.  371 

not  a  shot  was  fired  on  either  side,  and  the  articles  of 
convention  strictly  adhered  to. 

In  the  evening  General  Greene  entered  the  town, 
and  was  received  with  respectful  homage.  Great  re- 
joicing could  not  be  expected,  as  the  persons  found  in 
the  garrison  were  chiefly  British  merchants,  who  re- 
mained with  permission  to  dispose  of  their  goods,  or 
Americans  who  had  submitted,  and  who,  though  re- 
joiced at  heart,  might  have  considered  it  as  indecorous 
to  have  shown  external  manifestation  of  it.  The 
guard  at  night  was  committed  to  the  Legion;  and,  in 
a  very  little  time,  every  apartment  was  crowded  with 
soldiers  and  sailors,  who  had  emerged  from  their  hiding 
places,  and  surrendered  themselves,  or  who  were 
brought  in  by  the  patrols,  being  found  at  improper  hours 
in  the  streets.  On  the  following  morning  General 
Wayne  called  at  an  early  hour  at  the  Guard-House, 
and  handsomely  said, — "  I  wish  not  to  take  advantage 
of  circumstances.  If  there  are  any  men  among  you, 
who  have  inadvertently  remained  behind,  and  not  with 
intention  to  quit  the  British  standard,  let  them  speak; 
they  shall  not  be  regarded  as  prisoners,  but  be  imme- 
diately conveyed  on  board  the  fleet."  Nineteen  sailors 
stepping  forward,  declared,  "  that  they  had  only  re- 
mained on  shore  to  see  the  end  of  a  frolic,  and  that 
they  should  be  glad  to  profit  by  his  generous  offer." 
Lieutenant  Middleton,  with  a  proper  compliment  to 
General  Leslie  for  the  handsome  manner  in  which  he 
had  prevented  the  town  from  being  injured,  embarked 
with  a  flag  of  truce,  and  delivered  the  men  in  his  charge 
to  Commodore  Sweeney,  who  commanded  the  Naval 
department. 

On  the  morning  of  the  evacuation,  a  very  singular 
occurrence  took  place.  Captain  Cams  observing  a 
soldier,  as  he  believed,  dressed  in  a  regimental  exactly 
resembling  that  worn  by  the  Legion,  stepping  hastily 
into  the  very  last  boat,  put  his  hand  on  his  shoulder, 


372  EVACUATION  OF  CHARLESTON. 

and  demanded,  "  Wliither  so  fast,  my  lad  ;  you  surely 
cannot  wish  to  desert."  "  Sir,"  said  the  person  held, 
"  you  are  mistaken.  I  am  a  Captain  in  the  British  ser- 
vice." Cams  immediately  relinquished  his  hold,  and 
apologized  for  his  error.  The  boat  pushed  off,  when 
it  was  discovered  that  the  imprudent  being  who  had 
so  long  delayed  his  departure,  was  Mr.  William  Oli- 
phant,  late  a  Captain  in  the  Continental  Army,  who, 
seduced  by  the  promises  of  Lord  C.  Montague,  had, 
to  the  unutterable  grief  of  his  venerable  father,  forsaken 
the  cause  of  his  country,  and  accepted  a  commission 
in  his  regiment. 


^inttlUntmu  'Mnttnoitn. 


NIGHT  ATTACK  ON  GENERAL  WAYNE. 

One  of  the  most  singular  occurrences  of  the  war, 
was  the  midnight  attack  upon  the  Camp  of  General 
Wayne,  then  laying  at  Gibbons'  Plantation,  about  five 
miles  distant  from  Savannah,  by  Gurestessego,  a  chief 
of  the  Creek  nation.  The  intrepidity  of  this  gallant 
warrior  was,  in  the  first  instance,  attended  with  com- 
plete success.  The  sentinels  were  surprised,  the  camp 
entered,  and  cannon  taken.  The  endeavour  to  render 
them  serviceable  proved  his  ruin ;  the  time  was  lost 
which  should  have  been  employed  in  pursuing  his  suc- 
cess; and  the  confusion  occasioned  by  so  unlooked  for 
an  attack  having  subsided,  the  bayonet  of  Parker's 
Light  Infantry,  and  desperate  charge  made  by  Gunn, 
proved  irresistible.  The  chief,  fighting  hand  to  hand 
with  Wayne,  was  killed.  Seventeen  of  his  warriors 
fell ;  the  rest,  abandoning  their  pack-horses,  and  leav- 
ing a  very  considerable  prize  of  peltry  to  the  victors, 
fled.  It  must  for  ever  be  regretted,  that  this  rencounter, 
in  which  consummate  gallantry  was  displayed  on  both 
sides,  did  not  terminate  here;  but,  unhappily,  a  report, 
which  the  very  nature  of  the  attack  rendered  probable, 
produced  the  most  dire  catastrophe.  It  appeared  in- 
credible that  Indians,  accustomed  for  the  most  part  to 
resort  to  stratagem  for  success,  should,  without  the 
certainty  of  timely  support,  venture  on  so  bold  and 
hazardous  an  enterprise.     An  alarm  was  spread  that 


374  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 

the  enemy  from  Savannah,  led  on  by  the  g;allant 
Browne,  were  at  hand,  hastening  to  support  their 
allies;  and  twelve  young  warriors,  who  were  prisoners, 
were  doomed  to  die,  lest  they  should  join  the  expected 
assailants.  The  precipitancy  of  the  order  caused  many 
a  pang  to  the  heart  of  the  General,  for  before  the  falsity 
of  the  intelligence  could  be  ascertained,  the  devoted 
victims  were  delivered  up  a  sacrifice,  and  unresisting 
fell. 


MAJOR  MAXWELL. 

Towards* the  conclusion  of  the  war,  the  hostile 
attacks  of  the  Cherokees  on  our  frontier,  compelled 
General  Greene  to  order  General  Pickens  to  invade 
their  territory,  and  by  exemplary  punishment  bring 
them  to  a  proper  sense  of  their  error.  With  his  accus- 
tomed zeal  and  activity  Pickens  performed  the  service, 
and  with  complete  success.  Mounting  his  men,  and 
adopting  the  sword  instead  of  the  rifle,  he  so  con- 
founded his  enemy,  that  unable  to  withstand  the  bold- 
ness and  fury  of  his  charge,  they  speedily  relinquished 
every  idea  of  resistance,  and  precipitately  fled.  Forty 
Indians  were  killed,  many  prisoners  taken,  and  thirteen 
towns  reduced  to  ashes.  Opposition  ceased. 

Having  often  heard  of  a  desperate  conflict  that  had 
taken  place  on  this  occasion,  betwixt  a  Chief  of  renown 
and  Major  Maxwell  of  the  militia,  I  asked  the  particu- 
lars of  that  gentleman,  and  received  the  interesting 
communication  which  follows : 

"  While  charging  the  enemy,  my  horse  was  shot 
dead  beneath  me;  I  received  a  very  injurious  fall,  and 
had  scarcely  time  to  rise  and  put  myself  on  my  guard. 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES;  375 

when  an  Indian  of  prodigious  power  and  activity,  rush- 
ing furiously  upon  me,  inflicted  a  deep  and  dangerous 
wound  with  his  tomahawk;  receiving  at  the  same  mo- 
ment from  my  arm  a  deep  sabre  cut,  that  prostrated 
him  to  earth.  Recovering  about  the  same  time,  the  first 
shock  of  our  rencounter,  we  closed  with  increased 
animosity,  and  resolutely  contending  for  victory,  in 
turn  appeared  to  obtain  a  superiority.  In  activity  the 
Indian  surpassed  me.  In  strength  I  was  his  superior; 
and  my  advantage  was  still  increasing,  as  the  copious 
flow  of  blood  issuing  from  his  wound,  rendered  him  at 
every  instant  more  enfeebled.  I  perceived  a  creek  to 
be  near  us;  I  profited  by  the  circumstance,  and  lifting 
my  adversary  in  my  arms,  rushed  into  the  deepest  part 
of  it,  forced  his  head  beneath  the  surface,  and  held  it 
there,  till  life  had  completely  left  him. 


GENERAL  WILLIAM  BUTLER. 

The  interesting  Anecdotes  relative  to  the  sanguinary 
warfare  in  our  interior  country,  which  immediately 
follow,  were  obtained  from  Mr.  Pickens  Butler,  son  of 
the  distinguished  revolutionary  Partisan,  the  late  Gen- 
eral William  Butler. 

The  first  unfortunately  gives  an  appalling  picture  of 
the  savage  ferocity  exercised  by  the  Tories,  while  aim- 
ing at  the  subjugation  of  their  adversaries,  and  must  in 
the  eyes  of  candour,  tend  to  palliate  the  retaliatory 
measures  resorted  to  by  the  Whigs.  At  a  time  when 
the  Loyalists  were  numerous  and  powerful  in  the  inte- 
rior of  the  State,  James  Butler,  who  was  at  the  head 
of  a  party  of  Whigs,  finding  himself  closely  followed, 
and  likely  to  be  overpowered  by  Cunningham's  horse, 


376  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 

sought  shelter  in  a  house  near  Cloud's  Creek.  He 
was  quickly  assailed  by  his  pursuers,  and  defended 
himself  with  great  gallantry ;  but,  his  ammunition  be- 
ing totally  expended,  he  was  driven  to  the  necessity  of 
listening  to  the  tender  of  mercy  proposed  by  Cunning- 
ham, and  surrendered.  The  house  was  now  closely 
surrounded  to  prevent  escape.  The  arms  of  Mr. 
Butler  and  his  party  were  demanded,  and  given  up, 
when,  to  the  disgrace  of  human  nature,  the  unfortunate 
prisoners  were  marched  out  one  by  one,  and  delibe- 
rately cut  to  pieces.  The  ferocious  leader  of  the 
Loyalists  singled  out  Mr.  Butler  as  his  victim,  and 
slew  him  with  his  own  hand.  One  man  alone  escaped. 
A  monument,  erected  by  William  Butler,  with  pious 
regret  for  so  cruel  a  bereavement,  marks  to  this  day 
the  spot  where  his  intrepid  father  fell. 

Shortly  after  the  capture  of  Charleston,  Captain 
Michael  Watson,  a  man  of  great  courage,  at  the  head 
of  a  party  of  eighteen  mounted  Rangers,  raised  at  the 
ridge  of  Edgefield,  took  the  field  with  determined 
hostility  against  tiie  Tories.  William  Butler  (at  an 
after  period  so  highly  distinguished  as  an  active  and 
intrepid  Partisan)  commanded  a  small  body  of  cavalry, 
fifteen  only  in  number,  near  the  same  place.  These 
gallant  Patriots,  receiving  information  that  a  party  of 
Tories  were  encamped  in  Dean's  Swamp,  near 
Orangeburgh,  resolved  to  attack  them,  and  uniting 
their  forces  for  that  puri)ose,  marched  forward  at  sun- 
down, with  great  rapidity,  the  more  certainly  to  sur- 
prise them.  About  midnight,  they  met  with  and  de- 
tained as  a  prisoner,  one  Hutto,  a  disalfected  man,  and 
taking  him  along  with  them,  pursued  their  march.  At 
the  dawn  of  day,  when  very  near  the  encampment  of 
their  enemy,  Hutto  escaped,  which  at  once  destroyed 
the  hope  of  meeting  their  adversaries  unprepared  for 
action.  Watson  declared  it  madness  to  proceed,  but 
Butler,  who  had  recently  wept  a  murdered  parent,  and 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  377 

whose  feelings  were  excited  to  the  highest  pitch  of 
irritation,  avowed  his  firm  deternnination  to  proceed  at 
all  hazards.  Watson,  though  disinclined  in  the  first 
instance  to  pursue  the  enterprise,  was  not  a  man  to  be 
left  behind,  when  a  prospect  appeared  of  gaining  re- 
nown, and  of  serving  his  country.  On  the  verge  of 
Dean's  Swamp, 'two  men  were  seen  standing  alone. 
Butler,  Watson,  and  Varney,  a  Sergeant  of  great  in- 
trepidity, rode  rapidly  forward  to  secure  their  capture, 
the  rest  of.  the  party  closely  following  them.  Butler 
was  now  within  twenty  yards  of  them,  when  Watson 
cried  aloud,  "  Beware  !  the  whole  body  of  the  enemy 
are  at  hand  !"  The  Tories  rose,  as  he  spoke,  from 
their  ambuscade,  and  by  a  well  directed  fire,  brought 
Watson,  Varney,  and  several  others  to  the  ground. 
"  Suffer  me  not,"  exclaimed  Watson,  "  to  fall  into 
their  hands."  Butler  heard  the  appeal,  and  though 
severely  galled  in  the  attempt,  in  retiring  carried  with 
him  the  bodies  of  his  friends. 

It  was  now  seen,  that  the  Tories  doubled  the  num- 
ber of  the  Whig  Party,  who  experienced  the  additional 
mortification  of  seeing  themselves  abandoned  by  some 
few  of  their  associates,  who  fled  ;  and  of  finding,  that 
in  the  conflict,  though  short,  the  whole  of  their  ammu- 
nition had  been  expended.  The  Royalists  were  now 
advancing  with  perfect  confidence  of  victory,  when 
Butler,  forming  his  troop  in  compact  order,  and  nam- 
ing an  intrepid  soldier,  John  Corley,  his  Lieutenant 
charged  into  their  ranks,  depending  entirely  on  the 
sword.  The  violence  and  suddenness  of  the  onset, 
astonished  and  disconcerted  the  enemy  to  such  a  de- 
gree, as  to  throw  them  into  confusion.  Had  the 
opportunity  been  given  them  to  rally,  their  numbers 
would  have  given  them  victory  ;  but,  pressed  by  But- 
ler with  an  impetuosity  even  superior  to  that  with 
which  the  attack  was  commenced,  they  turned  their 
backs  in  despair,  were  driven  into  the  swamp   with 

48 


378  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 

great  slaughter,  and  dispersed.  The  Whigs  now  re- 
turned to  the  high  land.  As  they  passed  the  gallant 
Varney  he  made  an  effort  to  rise — waved  his  hand  in 
triumph — fell  again — and  expired  !  Administering 
comfort  to  those  whom  their  care  could  benefit,  a 
soldier's  grave  was  dug  with  soldiers'  swords^  and  Var- 
ney's  body  deposited  where  the  brave  are  proud  to  lie — 
the  field  of  Victory  ! 


GALLANTRY  OF  A  BOY  OF  FOURTEEN. 

When  Captain  Falls,  at  the  battle  of  Ramsour's 
Mill,  received  a  mortal  wound  and  fell,  his  son,  a  youth 
of  fourteen,  rushed  to  the  body,  as  the  man  who  had 
shot  him  was  preparing  to  plunder  it;  regardless  of  his 
opponent's  strength,  the  intrepid  youth,  snatching  up 
his  father's  sword,  plunged  it  into  the  breast  of  the 
soldier,  and  laid  him  dead  at  his  feet. 


LIEUT.  BALLARD  SMITH,  OF  VIRGINIA, 

ATTACHED  TO  THE  LEGION  OF  INFANTRY. 


Shortly  after  the  capture  of  the  British  Galley  by 
Rudolph,  where  Lieutenant  Smith  acted  as  second  in 
command,  a  Partisan  enterprise  was  undertaken  by 
iiim,  which,  had  it  succeeded,  must  have  filled  the 
British  garrison  with  confusion  and  dismay.  A  tavern, 
called  at  that  time  Dewees',  was  kept  at  a  farm  house 
about  two  miles  from  Charleston.    To  this  the  British 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  379 

officers  frequently  repaired  for  recreation.  It  was  often 
the  scene  of  entertainments,  and  on  one  occasion  of  a 
splendid   ball.       Lieutenant   Smith   being   previously 
apprized  of  this,  took  with  him  twelve  men,  and  Ser- 
geant  Du  Coin,    of  the    Legion,   a  soldier  of  tried 
courage,  and  passed  the  river  with  a  boat  rowed  with 
muffled  oars,  from  the  American,  to  the  opposite  shore. 
The  night  was  dark  and   gloomy.     The  negro  who 
served  as  guide  bewildered  by  it,  and  probably  appre- 
hensive of  consequences  if  discovered,  missed  the  land- 
ing place,  and  ran  the  boat  into  the  marsh  that  skirted 
the  shore.     Du   Coin,  to   make   discoveries,  slipped 
silently  overboard,  but,  from  the  softness  of  the  mud, 
with  infinite  difficulty  reached  the  shore,  immediately 
below  the  house.     Curiosity  led  him  to  see  what  was 
passing  within  ;  the  noise  of  music  and  revelry  facili- 
tated his  approach,    he  leapt  the  fence,  and  passing 
through  the  garden,  gained  access  to  a  window,  through 
which  he  perceived  a  large  and  elegant  assemblage  of 
company  enjoying  the  delights  of  dancing.     Alone  and 
unarmed,  without  a  chance  of  success,  he  returned  to 
the  water's  edge,  and  after  ascertaining  the  exact  situa- 
tion of  the  landing  place,  regained  the  boat.    So  much 
time  had  already  been  lost,  the  ebbing  tide  too  being 
unfavourable  to  his  purpose.  Lieutenant  Smith  thought 
it  best  to  retire,  hoping  to  return,  on  some  future  occa- 
sion, with  better  success.     The  following  night  being 
favourable  to  enterprise,  the  river  was  passed  as  before, 
and  the  boat,  steered  by   Du  Coin,  made  the  landing. 
Lieutenant  Smith  immediately  surrounding  the  house, 
entered  it,  in  full  expectation  of  making  a  handsome 
capture  of  officers,  but  his  evil  genius  forbade  it.    In- 
stead of  twenty  or  thirty  officers,  many  of  them  of  high 
rank,  a  Hessian  Major,  and  a  Lieutenant  of  the  volun- 
teers of  Ireland,  who  had  sacrificed  too  freely  to  Bac- 
chus, were  the  only   persons  found  on  the  premises. 
These  he  parolled,  and  returned  without  molestation. 


380  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 


LIEUTENANT  FOSTER,  OF  VIRGINIA, 

ATTACHED    TO    THE    LEGION. 

About  the  same  period,  a  British  armed  vessel 
anchored  opposite  to  Mr.  Fuller's  plantation,  near  Ash- 
ley Ferry.  Lieutenant  Foster,  who  commanded  a 
scouting  party  in  the  neighbourhood,  concluding  that 
plunder  was  the  object,  and  Mr.  Fuller's,  the  point  of 
destination,  secreted  his  men  so  effectually  in  the 
marsh,  near  the  landing  place,  that  the  marauders  ad- 
vancing in  their  boat,  never  suspected  their  danger  till 
they  saw  the  musksts  of  eighteen  men,  within  ten 
yards,  directly  levelled  at  them.  One  man  snatched 
up  a  blunderbuss  and  would *have  resisted,  had  he  not 
been  restrained  by  his  companions,  who,  calling  loudly 
for  quarter,  surrendered  at  discretion.  This  was  a 
very  acceptable  prize.  A  fine  boat,  completely  equip- 
ped, well  provided  with  comforts,  and  twenty-six  pri- 
soners, well  armed,  surrendered  without  a  shot  being 
fired.  Freed  from  alarm  on  account  of  personal  safety, 
the  captives  could  not  avoid  jesting  with  each  other  on 
their  misfortune,  so  completely  and  unexpectedly  en- 
snared when  confident  of  success,  they  had  made  their 
descent,  well  provided,  not  only  with  bags  to  carry  off 
property,  but  with  poles  with  slip-knots  fixed  to  their 
ends,  for  the  purpose  of  securing  pigs  and  poultry. 
Their  captivity  was  of  short  duration.  Colonel  Lau- 
rens, who  commanded  in  the  neighbourhood,  sent 
them  in  their  own  boat,  under  the  sanction  of  a  flag 
of  truce,  to  Charleston,  making  them  the  heralds  of 
their  own  disgrace. 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  381 


LIEUTENANT  JOHN  RHODES, 

OF    PRINCE    WILLIAMS. 

The  British,  while  in  possession  of  Port-Royal 
Island,  kept  a  strong  detachment  of  troops  at  Roupell's 
Ferry.  A  small  militia  guard,  commanded  by  Lieu- 
tenant Rhodes  of  the  Prince  William's  Company, 
were  stationed  at  Page's  Point,  on  the  opposite  shore. 
Sensible  that  it  would  be  easy  for  an  enterprising 
enemy,  from  the  number  of  navigable  creeks  that  led 
to  his  rear,  to  cut  off  his  party,  the  Lieutenant  judi- 
ciously made  a  representation  of  his  perilous  situation 
to  the  commanding  Continental  Officer  at  Sheldon. 
Brigade  Major  Hamilton  of  the  1st  Regiment,  was 
immediately  sent  to  judge  of  the  accuracy  of  the  state- 
ment, who,  finding  it  strictly  correct,  wrote  for  and 
obtained  a  Sergeant's  guard  of  Continentals,  to 
strengthen  the  command.  "  While  so  near  the  enemy," 
said  Hamilton,  "  I  would  pay  them  a  closer  visit  could 
I  find  a  proper  guide."  "  I  am  acquainted,"  replied 
Lieutenant  Rhodes,  "  with  every  foot  of  the  ground 
they  occupy,  and  will  willingly  accompany  you  across 
the  river."  Hastily  conceived,  and  promptly  entered 
on,  the  expedition  was  immediately  carried  into  effect, 
A  boat  was  prepared,  and  the  river  passed  with  muffled 
oars.  A  Sergeant's  guard  was  approached,  surrounded, 
and  with  the  exception  of  one  man  who  escaped,  and 
the  Sergeant,  who  resisting,  was  severely  wounded  by 
Lieutenant  Rhodes,  brought  off.  This  Partisan  stroke 
was  accomplished  by  eleven  men,  officers  included, 
four  of  whom  never  quitted  the  boat. 


382  MILCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 


LIEUTENANT  PARHAM. 

During  the  action  at  Stono,  Lieutenant  Parham, 
the.  Adjutant  of  the  Light  Infantry,  was  stationed  by 
Major  Pinckney  in  the  rear  of  the  Continentals^  pur- 
posely to  keep  the  men  in  their  stations,  and  prevent 
the  possibility  of  skulkers  falling  behind.  As  he  pass- 
ed over  the  field  of  battle,  a  British  officer,  desperately 
wounded,  pressed  him  so  earnestly  to  afford  him  a 
drink  of  water,  to  slake  consuming  thirst,  that  to  re- 
fuse was  deemed  impossible,  and  the  request  was  com- 
plied with.  The  British  officer  now  presenting  an 
elegant  watch,  said, — "  Take  it,  Sir,  'tis  yours  by  con- 
quest; your  generous  procedure,  too,  gives  you  still 
greater  title  to  it."  "  I  came  into  the  field,"  said  Par- 
ham,  "to  fight,  and  not  to  plunder;  it  gives  me 
pleasure  to  have  rendered  you  service;  I  ask  no  other 
recompense."  "  Keep  it  for  me  then,  in  trust,"  rejoined 
the  officer,  "  till  we  meet  again,  for  if  left  in  my  hands, 
it  may  be  wrested  from  me  by  some  marauder,  who,  to 
secure  silence,  may  inflict  death."  "  I  will  accede  to 
your  wishes,  and  take  charge  of  it,"  said  Parham, 
"  but  soon  as  opportunity  offers,  consider  it  a  sacred 
duty  to  return  it." 

A  very  considerable  period  elapsed  before  a  second 
meeting  took  place;  but,  in  strict  conformity  to  his 
honourable  feeling,  and  voluntary  promise,  Parham  no 
sooner  found  himself  within  reach  of  the  man  to  whom 
he  had  pledged  the  restitution  of  his  property,  than  he 
waited  upon  him,  presented  the  watch,  and  was  greet- 
ed with  an  expression  of  grateful  commendation,  that 
amply  rewarded  his  correct  and  liberal  conduct. 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  383 


MRS.  WRIGHT. 

At  the  commencement  of  the  Revolution,  Mrs. 
Wiisht,  a  native  of  Pennsylvania,  and  distinguished 
modeller  of  likenesses  and  figures  of  wax,  was  exhibi- 
ting specimens  of  her  skill  in  London.  The  King  of 
Great  Britain,  pleased  with  her  talents,  gave  her 
liberal  encouragement,  and  finding  her  a  great  politi- 
cian, and  enthusiastic  Republican,  would  often  enter 
into  discussion  relative  to  passing  occurrences,  and 
endeavour  to  refute  her  opinions,  with  regard  to  the 
probable  issue  of  the  war.  The  frankness  with  which 
she  delivered  her  sentiments,  seemed  rather  to  please 
than  to  offend  him;  which  was  a  fortunate  circum- 
stance, for  when  asked  an  opinion,  she  gave  it  without 
restraint,  or  the  least  regard  to  consequences.  I  re- 
member to  have  heard  her  say,  that  on  one  occasion, 
the  monarch,  irritated  by  some  disaster  to  his  troops, 
where  he  had  prognosticated  a  triumph,  exclaimed 
with  warmth,  "  I  wish,  Mrs.  Wright,  you  would  tell 
me  how  it  will  be  possible  to  check  the  silly  infatuation 
of  your  countrymen,  restore  them  to  reason,  and 
render  them  good  and  obedient  subjects."  "  I  con^ 
sider  their  submission  to  your  Majesty's  government, 
as  now  altogether  out  of  the  question,"  replied  Mrs. 
Wright.  "  Friends  you  may  make  them,  but  never 
subjects.  For  America,  before  a  king  can  reign  there, 
must  become  a  wilderness,  without  other  inhabitants 
than  the  beasts  of  the  forest.  The  opponents  of  the 
decrees  of  your  Parliament,  rather  than  submit,  would 
perish  to  a  man ;  but  if  the  restoration  of  peace  be 
seriously  the  object  of  your  wishes,  I  am  confident  that 
it  needs  but  the  striking  off  of  three  heads  to  produce 
it."  "  And  whose  are  the  three  heads  to  be  struck  off, 
Madam."     "  O,  Lord  North^s,  and  Lord  George  Ger- 


384  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES, 

maine's,  beyond  all  question."  "  And  whose  the  third 
head  ?"  *'  O,  Sire,  politeness  forbids  me  to  name  him. 
Your  Majesty  could  never  wish  me  to  forget  myself, 
and  be  guilty  of  an  incivility." 

In  her  exhibition  room,  one  group  of  figures  parti- 
cularly attracted  attention  ;  and  by  all  who  knew  her 
sentiments,  was  believed  to  be  a  pointed  hint  at  the 
results,  which  might  follow  the  wild  ambition  of  the 
Monarch.  The  busts  of  the  King  and  Queen  of 
Great  Britain,  were  placed  on  a  table,  apparently  in- 
tently gazing  on  a  head,  which  a  figure,  an  excellent 
representation  of  herself,  was  modelling  in  its  lap.  It 
was  the  head  of  the  unfortunate  Charles  the  First. 


DELIESSELINE. 

After  the  disastrous  surprise  of  the  cavalry  com- 
manded by  White,  at  Lcnud's  Ferry,  an  exploit  was 
performed  by  Mr.  Deliesseline,  the  present  Sheriff  of 
Charleston  District,  that  entitles  him  to  a  very  high 
degree  of  praise.  Although  but  sixteen  years  of  age 
when  Charleston  fell,  inspired  with  ardent  enthusiasm 
in  the  cause  of  his  country,  he  determined  to  encounter 
every  danger,  and  to  submit  to  every  prfvation,  rather 
than  yield  to  a  foe  who  had  already  shown  a  fixed  de- 
termination to  rule  with  the  iron  hand  of  oppression  ; 
and  to  avoid  impending  danger,  had  sought  safety  in 
concealment.  On  the  appearance  and  first  attack  of 
the  British,  thirteen  of  the  best  horses  of  the  corps 
surprised,  broke  through  the  ranks  of  the  assailants, 
and  gallopped  off  in  a  body ;  but,  being  speedily  fol- 
lowed by  a  party  of  the  victorious  dragoons,  were 
taken,  and  conveyed  to  a  neighbouring  plantation,  and 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  3^5 

there  left  in  possession  of  an  inhabitant  named  Des- 
champs,  with  strict   injunction  from  the  officer  corn- 
manding,  not  to  suffer  them  to  be  removed,  till  he 
should  return  and  reclaim  them.     Deschamps  being  a 
Whig  in  principle,  paid  little  regard  to  the  order ;   and 
through  the  medium  of  a  lady  strongly  attached  to  the 
American  cause,    information  was   immediately  con- 
veyed to  the  retreat  of  Deliesseline,  in  the  swamp  on 
the  opposite  side  of  the  Santee.     The  fair  opportunity 
to  serve  his  country  was  not  neglected.     Accompanied 
by  a  youth  of  his  own  age,  named  Diipre,  the  river 
was   immediately  passed,  the  stables   of  Deschamps 
assailed,  and  in  spite  of  the  resistance  of  the  domestics, 
the  horses  seized,  swam  across  the  Santee,  and  deli- 
vered,  with  all  their  equipments,  to  Major  Jamison, 
who,  with  several  officers  who  had  escaped  the  swords 
of  the  enemy,  were  assembled  at  Georgetown.     The 
delight  of  these  gentlemen,  to  see  the  finest  of  their 
cavalry  thus  unexpectedly  restored,  surpassed  expres- 
sion.    Major  Jamison   immediately  tendered  a  certi- 
ficate to   the   full    amount  of   their  value  ;    but  the 
patriotic  spirit  that  had  given  birth  to  enterprise,  spurn- 
ed the  idea  of  being  paid  for  its  accomplishment.  The 
youthful  associates  modestly  declared,  "  That   their 
motives  were  altogether  disinterested;  and  that  the 
happiness  of  having  rendered  a  service   to  their  coun- 
try, was  a  sufficient  reward." 


CAPTAIN  GEE. 

At  the  battle  of  Eutaw,  when  General  Marion's 
Brigade  was  displaying  in  face  of  the  enemy.  Captain 
Gee,  who  commanded  the  front  platoon,   was  shot 

49 


386  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 

down,  and  supposed  to  be  mortally  wounded.  The 
ball  passed  through  the  cock  of  a  handsome  hat,  that 
he  had  recently  procured,  tearing  the  crown  very  much, 
and  in  its  progress,  the  head  also.  He  lay  for  a  con- 
siderable time  insensible  ;  the  greater  part  of  the  day 
had  passed  without  a  favourable  symptom  ;  when,  sud- 
denly reviving,  his  first  inqu  ry  was  after  his  beaver, 
which  being  brought  him,  a  li'and,  at  the  same  time, 
lamenting  the  mangled  state  of  the  head,  he  ex- 
claimed— "  O,  never  think  of  the  head  ;  time  and  the 
Doctor  will  put  that  to  rights ;  but  it  grieves  me  to 
think,  that  the  rascals  have  ruined  my  hat  for  ever  I" 


CAPTAIN  ZEIGLER,  OF  PENNSYLVANIA. 

The  conclusion  of  the  war,  though  in  the  highest 
degree  acceptable  to  a  great  majority  of  the  citizeiTs  of 
the  United  States,  proved  far  otherwise  to  the  soldiers 
of  fortune,  who  sought  not  only  reputation,  but  sup- 
port, ?jy  their  swords. 

I  remember  full  well,  that  when  the  army  was  re- 
viewed for  the  last  time  on  James'  Island,  and  3.  feu  de 
joie  fired  to  celebrate  the  return  of  Peace,  that  Cap- 
tain Zeigler  of  the  Pennsylvania  Line,  after  saluting 
General  Greene,  significantly  shrugging  up  his  shoul- 
ders, and  dropping  the  point  of  his  sword,  gave  vent 
to  an  agony  of  tears.  The  review  ended ;  on  being 
questioned  as  to  the  cause  of  his  emotion,  he  feelingly 
said — "  Although  I  am  happy  in  the  thought,  that  my 
fellow  soldiers  may  now  seek  their  homes,  to  enjoy 
the  reward  of  their  toils,  and  all  the  delights  of  domes- 
tic felicity,  I  cannot  but  remember,  that  I  am  left  on 
the  busy  scene  of  life,  a  wanderer,  without  friends, 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  387 

and  without  employment ;  and  that,  a  soldier  from  in- 
fancy, I  am  now  in  the  decline  of  life,  compelled  to 
seek  a  precarious  subsistence  in  some  new  channel, 
where  ignorance  and  inability  may  mar  ray  fortunes, 
and  condemn  me  to  perpetual  obscurity."  I  have 
given  the  purport  of  his  speech  in  plain  language — it 
certainly  was  not  his  usual  style  of  speaking  ;  in 
which,  the  mixture  of  German  and  English  words, 
formed  a  dialect  not  easily  to  be  comprehended. 

An  excellent  and  intrepid  soldier,  he  was  particu- 
larly proud  of  the  discipline  and  military  appearance 
of  the  company  he  commanded.  On  one  occasion, 
while  conducting  a  number  of  prisoners  to  a  British 
out-post,  addressing  himself  to  his  men,  whom  he  was 
ambitious  to  show  to  the  best  advantage,  he  said, 
assuming  an  erect  posture,  and  an  air  of  great  dignity, 
"  Gentlemens,  you  are  now  to  meet  with  civility  the 
enemy  of  your  country,  and  you  must  make  dem  re- 
gard you  with  profound  and  respectful  admiration. 
Be  please,  den,  to  look  great — to  look  graceful — to 
look  like  de  Devil — to  look  like  me !" 


FICKLING. 

A  CIRCUMSTANCE  occurred  during  the  eacampment 
of  General  Lincoln  at  Purysburg,  that  from  its  sin- 
gularity deserves  to  be  recorded.  A  soldier  named 
Fickling,  by  the  irregularity  of  his  conduct,  long  excit- 
ed the  indignation  of  his  coairades,  and,  at  length, 
from  repeated  efforts  to  desert  to  the  enemy,  had  been 
brought  to  trial,  and  condemned  to  death.  It  hap- 
pened, that  as  he  was  led  to  execution,  the  Surgeon 
General  of  the  army  passed  accidentally  on  his  way  to 


388  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 

his  quarters,  which  were  at  some  distance  off.  Oa 
being  tied  up  to  the  fatal  tree,  the  removal  of  the  lad- 
der caused  the  rope  to  break,  and  the  culprit  fell  to  the 
ground.  This  circumstance,  to  a  man  of  better  cha- 
racter, might  have  proved  of  advantage  ;  but,  being 
Universally  considered  as  a  miscreant,  from  whom  no 
good  could  ever  be  expected,  a  new  rope  was  sought 
for,  which  Lieutenant  Hamilton,  the  Adjutant  of  the 
1st  Regiment,  a  stout  and  heavy  man,  essayed  by 
every  means,  but  without  effect,  to  break.  Fickling 
was  then  haltered,  and  again  turned  off,  when,  to  the 
astonishment  of  the  by-standers,  the  rope  untwisted, 
and  he  fell  a  second  time,  uninjured,  to  the  ground. 
A  cry  for  mercy  was  now  general  throughout  the 
ranks,  which  occasioned  Major  Ladson,  Aid-de-Camp 
to  General  Lincoln,  to  gallop  to  Head-Quarters,  to 
make  a  representation  of  facts,  which  were  no  sooner 
stated,  than  an  immediate  pardon  was  granted,  ac- 
companied with  an  order,  that  he  should,  instanta- 
neously, be  drummed,  with  every  mark  of  infamy,  out 
of  camp,  and  threatened  with  instant  death  if  ever 
he  should,  at  any  future  period,  be  found  attempting 
to  approach  it.  In  the  interim,  the  Surgeon  General 
had  established  himself  at  his  quarters,  in  a  distant 
barn,  little  doubting  but  that  the  catastrophe  was  at  an 
end,  and  Fickling  quietly  resting  in  his  grave.  Mid- 
night was  at  hand,  and  he  was  busily  engaged  in  writ- 
ing, when  hearing  the  approach  of  a  footstep,  he  raised 
his  eyes,  and  saw  with  astonishment,  the  figure  of  the 
man,  who  had,  in  his  opinion,  been  executed,  slowly 
and  with  haggard  countenance  approaching  towards 
him.  "  How  !  how  is  this  ?"  exclaimed  the  Doctor. 
"  Whence  come  you  ?  What  do  you  want  with  me  ? 
Were  you  not  hanged  this  morning  ?"  "  Yes,  Sir," 
replied  the  resuscitated  man,  "  I  am  the  wretch  you 
saw  going  to  the  gallows,  and  who  was  hanged." 
"  Keep  your  distance,"  said  the  Doctor;   "  approach 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  3g9 

me  not  till  you  say,  why  come  you  here  ?  '*  Simply, 
Sir,"  said  the  supposed  spectre,  "  to  solicit  food.  I 
am  no  ghost.  Doctor.  The  rope  broke  twice  while 
the  executioner  was  doing  his  office,  and  the  General 
thought  proper  to  pardon  me."  "  If  that  be  the  case," 
rejoined  the  Doctor,  "  eat  and  welcome  ;  but  I  beg  of 
you,  in  future,  to  have  a  little  more  consideration,  and 
not  intrude  so  unceremoniously  into  the  apartment  of 
one  who  had  every  right  to  suppose  you  an  inhabitant 
of  the  tomb." 


HAPPY  ESCAPE. 

I  HOPE  I  shall  be  pardoned  for  relating  an  occurrence, 
which,  though  of  no  consequence  to  the  public,  was  to 
myself  of  such  momentous  importance,  as  not  be  recoK 
lected,  even  at  this  distant  day,  without  the  keenest  and 
most  appalling  sensations.  To  check  the  predatory  ex- 
cursions of  the  British  garrison,  the  light  troops  were  so 
placed  as  to  be  ready,  on  the  slightest  alarm,  to  encoun- 
ter them.  The  enemy  were  not  without  energy,  and 
did  occasionally  venture  beyond  their  lines,  but  rarely 
with  impunity;  a  partial  sacrifice  of  men  was  the  gene- 
ral result,  frequently  the  entire  loss  of  the  party.  They 
had  their  successes  too,  and  on  three  different  occa- 
sions, Armstrong  and  George  Carrington  of  Lee's,  and 
Kelty  of  Baylor's,  were  made  prisoners.  Information 
being  communicated  to  Colonel  Laurens,  that  a  con- 
siderable detachment  of  cavalry  had  passed  by  Goose 
Creek  Bridge,  higher  up  the  country  than  they  had 
usually  ventured,  Rudolph's  company  of  the  Legion, 
and  QuinauWs  of  the  Delawares,  were  thrown  across 
the  Ashley,  to  await  them  in  ambuscade.     Quinault 


390  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 

took  post  near  Eagle  Bridge,  beloiv  Dorchester;  Ru- 
dolph above  it,  immediately  opposite  to  the  avenue 
leading  to  Cato's  Plantation:  1  acted  as  his  subaltern. 
It  was  at  the  close  of  the  day,  that  information  was 
communicated  by  a  dragoon,  that  the  enemy  were  cer- 
tainly above  us,  and  retiring  towards  their  lines. 
Rudolph,  commanding  the  strictest  silence,  placed  out 
three  sentinels,  each  a  little  in  advance  of  the  other,  with 
orders  not  to  hail,  but  to  retire  cautiously  before  any 
party  that  should  approach:  then,  addressing  his  men, 
he  said, — "  I  know  you  too  well  to  think  it  necessary 
to  recommend  obedience  and  energy.  When  the  first 
sentinel  reaches  us,  whom  1  have  ordered  to  retire  as 
the  enemy  appears,  a  single  clap  of  my  hands  shall  be 
the  signal  to  prepare.  When  the  second,  I  shall  again 
clap  my  hands,  you  must  stand  ready  to  level  your 
pieces;  and  1  trust  you  will  do  so  with  that  delibera- 
tion, that,  from  your  proximity  to  the  road,  must  occa- 
sion great  execution.  When  I  clap  my  hands  the  third 
time,  give  your  fire,  shout  loudly,  and  rush  forward 
with  the  bayonet."  He  had  scarcely  ceased  speaking, 
when  horsemen  were  distinctly  heard  crossing  an  old 
field,  directly  in  our  front,  to  Cato's  house.  To  ascer- 
tain who  they  were,  Captain  Rudolph  quitted  his  com- 
mand, directing  me,  should  the  enemy  appear,  to  act 
in  strict  conformity  to  the  orders  he  had  communicated. 
But  a  very  few  minutes  had  elapsed  before  the  sen- 
tinel most  advanced,  retiring,  proclaimed  that  he  had 
distinctly  heard  the  approach  of  cavalry.  I  clapped  my 
hands,  and  every  soldier  was  prepared.  The  second 
sentinel  made  his  appearance  also;  from  him  commu- 
nication was  unnecessary,  the  trampling  of  horses, 
slowly  approaching,  was  heard  by  every  one.  I  clap- 
ped my  hands,  and  all  were  ready  to  level ;  the  third 
sentinel  came  in,  and  I  now  perceived,  though  indis- 
tinctly, from  the  darkness  of  the  night,  the  head  of  the 
advancing  troop.  I  candidly  own  that  it  was  a  moment 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  391 

of  breathless  expectation.  It  was  about  twenty  yards 
distant,  and  I  only  waited  till  it  should  be  immediately 
in  our  front,  to  give  the  signal  to  fire,  when  the  exalted 
voice  of  Rudolph  was  heard,  exclaiming,  "  Stop,  for 
God's  sake  stop;  do  not  fire,  they  are  friends."  He 
speedily  reached  me  with  the  information,  that  the 
horsemen  he  had  met  at  Cato's  were  two  of  our  own 
regiment,  who  had  been  sent  forward  to  seek  him,  to 
give  information  that  Captain  Armstrong,  with  the 
third  troop  of  the  Legion,  Jiad  crossed  at  Bacon's 
Bridge,  and  to  caution  him  against  mistaking  them  for 
the  enemy.  Good  God!  what  an  escape  was  mine;  it 
was  Armstrong  who  was  now  immediately  before  me; 
and  had  not  the  interposition  of  Providence  saved  me,  I 
should  in  an  instant,  though  innocently,  have  done  a 
deed  that  must  have  imbittered  every  hour  of  my 
future  life. 


While  the  Legion  lay  at  Mr.  Izard's  Villa  Planta- 
tion, near  Bacon's  Bridge,  anxiously  looking  forward 
to  the  evacuation  of  the  Capital,  having  long  assidu- 
ously attended  to  the  duties  of  camp,  my  superior 
officer.  Captain  Handy,  advised  me,  as  there  was  little 
appearance  of  an  immediate  call  for  active  service,  to 
visit  a  friend  in  the  neighbourhood,  and  enjoy  the 
luxury  of  a  comfortable  meal.  1  was  not  unthankful 
for  the  favour,  and  with  great  satisfaction  rode  to  Mrs. 
Barnard  Elliott's,  a  few  miles  distant,  from  whose 
hospitality  I  was  certain  to  meet  a  hearty  welcome. 
Dinner  was  served  up,  and  I  was  about  to  take  my 
place  at  table,  when  a  dragoon  gallopping  up,  presented 
a  note  from  Captain  Handy,  requiring  me,  without 
delay,  to  join  the  regiment  about  to  cross  tlie  Ashley, 
with  orders  to  harass  the  rear  of  the  retiring  enemy, 
who  were  on  the  eve  of  departure.  I  had  no  alterna- 
tive, and  without  a  moment's  hesitation,  set  out.     Ar- 


392  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 

riving  at  the  Villa,  I  found  that  the  regiment  had 
already  moved,  and  hastening  forward,  speedily  joined 
it.  Encamped  for  the  night  at  Parker's,  below  Dor- 
chester, and  expressing  to  Handy  and  Manning,  my 
companions,  the  disappointment  recently  experienced, 
and  the  cravings  of  immediate  appetite,  a  soldier,  who 
had  heard  the  conversation,  with  great  civility,  said, 
*'  While  on  our  march.  Perry  Scott  purchased  of  a 
negro,  who  was  passing  us,  a  turkey,  which  we  have 
cooked.  If  you  will  partake  of  it,  Lieutenant,  I  have 
a  leg  and  a  little  rice,  altogether  at  your  service."  It 
was  not  a  moment  to  refuse.  The  leg  and  rice  were 
produced,  and  my  friends  and  self  eat  our  scanty  por- 
tion with  great  relish.  We  had  halted  at  Parker's 
during  the  night,  to  give  General  Wayne  an  opportunity 
of  crossing,  with  a  large  body  of  infantry,  the  Ashley 
Ferry  ;  and  at  early  dawn  moved  forward  to  join  him, 
but  not  before  a  second  soldier  had  presj^nted  to  Man- 
ning, the  other  leg  of  the  turkey  purchased  by  Scott. 
Soon  after  our  junction  with  the  infantry,  General 
Wayne,  escorted  by  the  whole  of  the  cavalry,  moved 
forward  to  reconnoitre  the  enemy's  position  at  Shu- 
brick's. 

The  usual  hour  of  refreshment  having  passed,  with 
little  appearance  of  relief  from  our  Commissary,  a 
third  soldier  advancing,  said,  "  I  hope  Captain  Handy 
will  not  refuse  from  me,  a  leg  of  the  turkey  which 
Scott  purchased  the  last  night  on  the  road,  as  it  is  a 
particularly  fine  one  :  and  I  wish,  with  a  tempting 
mess  of  rice,  to  offer  it  to  him."  The  third  leg 
was  eaten  ;  and,  to  shorten  my  story,  for  three 
succeeding  meals,  still  another,  and  another  leg  of 
Scott's  purchased  turkey  were  presented.  The  mystery 
was  soon  exi>lained.  A  messenger,  with  dispatches 
from  Head  Quarters  to  General  Wayne,  brought  an 
order  also,  that  the  knapsacks  of  the  troops  should  be 
strictly  examined,  as  Mr.  John  Waring's  poultry-house 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  393 

had  been  robbed,  and  thirty  turkeys  carried  off,  about 
the  time  of  our  removal  from  Izard's.  Search  was 
accordingly  made,  but  not  a  feather  found  that  could 
justify  suspicion  of  criminality  in  any  Legionary  Sol- 
dier. A  detachment  of  Pennsylvanians  were  but  a 
little  removed  from  the  spot,  and  as  they  enjoyed  high 
reputation  for  their  partiality  to  delicate  fare,  this  un- 
ceremonious transfer  of,property,  was  generally  attri- 
buted to  them. 

A  story  is  recorded  in  testimony  of  the  ready  wit  of 
a  soldier  of  that  Line,  to  this  effect.  A  turkey-cock 
being  found  in  his  knapsack,  and  inquiry  made  as  to 
the  right  of  possession,  he  declared,  "  that  in  his  gob- 
bling the  saucy  bird  had  so  often  called  him  tory,  torp, 
torp,  that  he  had  killed  him  to  prevent  further  insult." 
"  But,"  said  the  inquirmg  officer,  "  here  is  a  hen  also 
in  "your  knapsack ;  she  does  not  gobble — why  was  she 
brought."  "  Oh,  an  please  your  honour,  as  an  evi- 
dence. She  heard  the  insult,  and  if  she  had  not  been 
smothered  by  her  close  confinement,  might  have  told 
you  how  much  I  bore,  before  I  could  persuade  myself 
to  do  the  rascal  an  injury." 


GENERAL  WASHINGTON. 

A  FRIEND  who  assured  me  that  his  information  was 
derived  from  the  best  authority,  related  an  Anecdote 
highly  characteristic  of  the  humanity  and  discretion  of 
the  good  and  great  Washington.  Stopping  for  refresh- 
ment at  a  house  in  Jersey,  in  which  a  wounded  officer 
lay,  ,who  was  sensibly  agitated  by  the  slightest  noise, 
he  constantly  spoke  in  an  under  tone  of  voice  ;  and  at 
table,  in  every  movement,  evinced  marked  considera- 

50 


594  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 

tion  for  the  sufferer.  Retiring  to  another  apartment 
at  the  conclusion  of  the  meal,  the  gentlemen  of  hi* 
family,  unresvrained  by  his  presence,  were  less  par- 
ticular. Titey  spoke  in  higher  tones  ;  when  the  Gen- 
eral, who  heard  them  with  uneasiness,  immediately 
returning,  opened  the  door  with  great  caution,  and 
walkins;  on  tip  toe  to  the  extremity  of  the  apartment, 
took  a  book  from  the  mantlepiece,  and  without  utter- 
ing a  syllable,  again  retired.  The  hint  w^s  not  lost — 
respectful  silence  was  the  immediate  consequence. 


Dr.  M'Caula,  some  time  since  Intendant  of  Charles- 
ton, who  served  with  distinction  during  the  war  of  the 
Revolution,  has  frequently  declared,  that  after  the  sur- 
render of  York-Town,  while  the  Continental  Troops 
were  preparing  to  receive  the  British,  who  were  to 
march  forth  from  the  garrison,  and  deliver  up  their 
arms,  that  he  heard  the  Commander  in  Chief  say,  (ad- 
dressing himself  to  the  division  of  the  army  to  which 
he  was  attached)  "  My  brave  fellows,  let  no  sensation 
of  satisfaction  for  the  triumphs  you  have  gained,  induce 
you  to  insult  your  fallen  enemy — let  no  shouting,  no 
clamourous  huzzaing  increase  their  mortification.  It 
is  sufficient  satisfaction  to  us,  that  we  witness  their 
humiliation.     Posterity  will  huzza  for  us  !" 


OLD  LYDICK. 

Shortly  after  his  election  to  the  presidency  of  the 
United  States,  General  Washington,  his  lady,  and 
Secretary,  Major  Jackson,  on  their  way  from  the  seat 
of  Government  to  Mount  Vernon,  stopped  for  the 
night  at  Chester.  The  President  had  scarcely  arrived, 
and  expressed  a  wish  not  to  be  disturbed,  when  a  mes- 
sage was  brought,  that  an  old  gentleman,  once  honour- 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  39^ 

ed  with  his  favour  and  protection,  anxiously  requested 
permission  to  pay  his  respects,  adding,  that  his  name 
was  LydicL  "  Let  him  enter,  by  all  means,"  said 
General  Washington,  "  he  is  the  man.  Major  Jackson, 
who,  at  the  hazard  of  his  life,  entered  New-York, 
while  in  possession  of  the  enemy,  for  the  purpose  of 
distributing  among  the  German  troops,  proclamations, 
inviting  them  to  our  standard  ;  and  who,  at  an  after 
period,  superintended  for  many  years  our  baking  esta- 
blishment with  zeal  and  diligence."  As  the  old  man 
entered,  the  General,  taking  him  kindly  by  the  hand, 
said,  "  My  worthy  friend,  I  am  rejoiced  to  see  you, 
and  truly  happy  to  ex|)ress  my  thanks  to  a  man  to 
whom  I  feel  myself  under  great  obligation.  You  ever 
served  you  country  with  exemplary  fidelity,  and  her 
warmest  gratitude  is  richly  your  due."  "  Such  praise 
from  my  beloved  commander,"  replied  Lydick,  "  is 
high  reward.  I  shall  now  go  to  my  grave  in  peace, 
since  it  has  been  my  happiness,  once  again,  to  meet 
and  pay  my  duty  to  your  Excellency.  I  have  but  one 
regret.  You  are  childless  !  You  leave  your  country 
no  representative  of  your  virtues  !  But  you  are  not 
as  old  as  Abraham;  and  she,  (gently  touching  the 
shoulder  of  Mrs.  Washington)  as  old  as  Sarah  ;  and 
through  the  favour  of  the  Almighty,  I  hope  that  a  son 
may  still  be  born  to  bless  us."  The  General,  with  a 
smile,  thanked  him  for  his  good  wishes,  and  the  old 
man  retired,  praying,  that  fruitfulness  might  crown  the 
last  years  of  their  existence  with  perfect  felicity. 


J96  BIISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 


MICHAEL  DOCHERTY. 

The  character  of  the  Soldier  of  Fortune,  so  inimita- 
bly well  drawn,  and  which  constitutes  the  chief  tiierit 
of  the  popular  tale,  "  A  Legend  of  Montrose,"  has 
been  considered  altogether  imaginar}^  The  careless 
facility  with  which  lie  changed  sides,  and  embraced 
opposite  principles,  regarded  as  the  sportive  invention 
of  the  author's  brain.  I  will  briefly  relate  the  adven- 
tures of  a  sentinel  in  the  Continental  service,  as  re- 
ceived from  his  own  lips,  and  leave  it  to  my  readers  to 
determine  whether  the  character  of  Dalgetty,  "  though 
it  never  did,  might  not  have  existed." 

At  the  moment  of  retreat,  on  the  12th  of  May,  1782, 
when  Colonel  Laurens,  commanding  the  Light  Troops 
of  General  Greene's  army,  beat  up  the  quarters  of  the 
enemy  near  Accabee,  Michael  Docherty,  a  distin- 
guished soldier  of  the  Delawares,  said  to  a  comrade 
who  was  near, — "  By  Jasus,  it  does  my  heart  good  to 
think  that  little  blood  has  been  spilt  this  day,  any  how, 
and  that  we  are  likely  to  see  the  close  of  it  without  a 
fight."  No  notice  was  taken  of  his  speech  at  the  time, 
but  meeting  him  shortly  after  in  camp,  I  inquired, 
*'  how  he,  who  was  so  much  applauded  for  uncommon 
gallantry,  should  have  expressed  so  great  delight  on 
finding  the  enemy  indisposed  for  action."  "  And  who, 
besides  myself,  had  a  better  right  to  be  pleased,  I 
wonder,"  said  Docherty.  "  Wounds  and  captivity 
have  no  charms  for  me,  and  Michael  has  never  yet 
fought,  but,  as  bad  luck  would  have  it,  both  have  been 
his  portion.  When  I  give  you  a  little  piece  of  the 
history  of  my  past  life,  you  will  give  me  credit  for  my 
wish  to  be  careful  of  the  part  that  is  to  come.  I  was 
unluckly  from  the  jumj).  At  the  battle  of  Brandy  wine, 
acting  as  Sergeant  of  a  company  in  the  Delaware  Re- 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  397 

giment,  my  Captain  killed,  and  Lieutenant  absenting 
himself  from  the  field  for  the  greater  safety  of  his 
mother's  son,  I  fought  with  desperation  till  our  ammu- 
nition was  expended,  and  my  comrades  being  com- 
pellpd  to  retire,  I  was  left  helpless  and  wounded  on 
the  ground,  and  fell  into  the  hands  of  the  enemy.  Con- 
finement was  never  agreeable  to  me.  I  could  never 
be  aisy  within  the  walls  of  a  prison.  A  recruiting 
Sergeant  of  the  British,  who  was  at  home  in  his  busi- 
ness, and  up  to  all  manner  of  cajolery,  by  dint  of  per- 
pet<ial  biarny,  gained  my  good  will,  sli[)ped  the  King's 
bounty  into  niy  hand,  which  I  pocketed,  and  entered  a 
volunteer  into  the  17th  Regiment.  Stoney  Point  was 
our  station,  and  I  thought  myself  snugly  out  of  harm's 
way,  when  one  ugly  night,  when  I  did  not  even  dream 
of  such  an  accident,  the  post  was  carried  at  the 
point  of  the  bayonet,  and  an  unlucky  thrust  laid  me 
prostrate  on  the  earth.  It  was  a  great  consolation, 
however,  that  although  this  was  rather  rough  treat- 
ment from  the  hand  of  a  friend,  that  the  Old  Dela- 
wares  were  covered  with  glory,  and  that  as  their 
prisoner,  I  was  sure  to  meet  the  kindest  attention.  My 
wound  once  cured,  and  white-washed  of  my  sins,  my 
ancient  comrades  received  me  with  kindness;  and  light 
of  heart,  and  hoping  to  gain  any  quantity  of  laurels  in 
the  South,  1  marched  forward  with  the  Regiment,  as  a 
part  of  the  command  destined  to  recover  the  Carolinas 
and  Georgia.  The  bloody  battle  of  Camden,  fought 
on  the  16th  of  August,  bad  luck  to  the  day,  brought 
me  once  again  into  trouble.  Our  Regiment  was  cut 
up  root  and  branch,  and  poor  Pilgarlic,  my  unfortunate 
self,  wounded  and  made  prisoner.  My  prejudices 
against  a  jail  I  have  frankly  told,  and  being  pretty  con- 
fident that  I  should  not  a  whit  better  relish  a  lodging 
in  the  inside  of  a  prison-ship,  I  once  again  sufifered 
myself  to  be  persuaded,  and  listed  in  the  infantry  of 
Tarleton's  Legion.     O,  botheration,  what  a  mistake. 


398  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 

I  never  before  had  kept  such  bad  company;  as  a  naaa 
of  honour,  I  was  out  of  my  ilement,  and  should  certainly 
have  given  them  leg  bail,  but  that  I  had  no  time  to 
brood  over  my  misfortunes,  for  the  battle  of  the  Cow- 
pens  quickly  following,  Howard  and  Old  Kirkwood 
gave  us  the  bayonet  so  handsomely,  that  we  were  taken 
one  and  all,  and  I  should  have  escaped  unhurt,  had 
not  a  dragoon  of  Washington's  added  a  scratch  or  two 
to  the  account  already  scored  on  my  unfortunate  car- 
cass. As  to  all  the  miseries  that  I  have  since  endured, 
afflicted  with  a  scarcity  of  every  thing  but  appetite  and 
musquitoes,  I  say  nothing  about  them.  My  love  for 
my  country  gives  me  courage  to  support  that,  and  a 
great  deal  more  when  it  comes.  I  love  my  comrades, 
and  they  love  Docherty.  Exchanging  kindnesses,  we 
give  care  to  the  dogs;  but  surely  you  will  nor  be  sur- 
prised, after  all  that  I  have  said,  that  I  f^-el  some 
qualms  at  the  thought  of  battle,  since,  take  ivhatever 
side  I  will,  I  am  always  sure  to  find  it  the  wrong  one. 


COLONEL  MENZIES. 

Some  time  previous  to  the  evacuation  of  Charles- 
ion,  Colonel  Menzies  of  the  Pennsylvania  Line,  re- 
ceiving a  letter  from  a  Hessian  officer  within  the 
garrison,  who  had  once  been  a  prisoner,  and  treated  by 
him  with  kindness,  expressing  an  earnest  desire  to  show 
his  gratitude,  by  executing  any  commission  with  which 
he  would  please  to  honour  him.  Colonel  Menzies  re- 
plied to  it,  requesting  him  to  send  him  twelve  dozen 
Cigars ;  but,  being  a  German  by  birth,  and  little  ac- 
customed to  express  himself  in  English,  he  was  not 
very  accurate  in  his  orthography,  and  wrote  Sizars. 
Twelve  dozen  pair  of  Scissors  were  accordingly  sent 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  399 

Jiim,  which,  for  a  time,  occasioned  much  mirth  ia 
the  camp,  at  the  Colonel's  expense  ;  but  no  man  knew 
better  how  to  profit  from  the  mistake.  Money  was 
not,  at  the  period,  in  circulation  ;  and  by  the  aid  of  his 
runner,  distributins  his  Scissors  over  the  country,  in 
exchange  for  poultry.  Colonel  Menzies  lived  lux- 
uriously, while  the  fare  of  his  brother  officers  was  a 
scanty  pittance  of  famished  beef,  bull-frogs  from  ponds, 
and  crayfish  from  the  neighbouring  ditches. 


The  want  of  active  employment  was,  at  this  time, 
extremely  prejudicial  to  the  service ;  for,  while  it  en- 
gendered discontent  among  the  men,  it  gave  birth  to 
perpetual  feuds  among  the  officers.  Having  little  to 
apprehend  from  the  exertions  of  the  enemy,  confined 
within  the  narrow  limits  of  the  garrison  of  Charles- 
ton, indolence  gave  birth  to  peevishness  and  discontent, 
and  bile  was  generated  to  an  overflow.  A  look,  a 
smile,  and  even  the  slightest  inuendo,  though  uttered 
without  the  most  distant  idea  of  giving  offence,  was 
too  frequently  the  prelude  to  a  call  to  the  field.  The 
loss  of  some  valuable  lives,  and  infliction  of  many 
wounds,  was  the  consequence.  I  will  mention  but 
one  instance  of  the  trivial  causes  that  gave  birth  to 
intemperate  hostility.  Colonel  Menzies,  boasting  of 
the  antiquity  of  his  family  with  true  German  pom- 
posity, Lieutenant  Colonel  Jack  Steward  of  Mary- 
land, laughingly  observed,  "  That  it  was  impossible 
for  him  to  entertain  a  doubt  upon  the  subject,  since  he 
remembered  in  the  reading  of  his  boyish  days,  to  have 
formed  an  acquaintance  with  a  Jew  of  celebrity,  one 
Mordecai  Menzies,  the  confidential  and  bosom  friend 
of  the  law  giver  Moses."  This  jeu  d^esprit  produced 
a  duel,  and  nothing  but  the  interposition  of  cooler 
heads  (the  first  shots  being  exchanged  without  mis- 
©hief)  prevented  it  from  ending  fatally. 


400  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES, 


YANKEE  CAPTAIN. 

Till  the  last  hour  that  the  British  kept  possession 
ef  New-York,  independent  of  Cusrom-House  forms, 
they  obliged  th»  Captains  of  American  vessels,  bring- 
ing in  articles  for  sale,  to  dance  attendance,  in  many 
instances,  for  days  together,  seeking  passports  to  pre- 
vent detention  by  the  guard-ships.  An  unfortunate 
Yankee,  who  had  sold  his  notions,  and  was  impatient 
to  depart,  having  been  repeatedly  put  ofif  with  frivolous 
excuses,  and  bid  to  "  call  again,"  indignantly  exclaim- 
ed, "  Well,  I  vow,  for  a  beaten  people,  you  are  the 
most  saucy  that  I  ever  met  with."  "Make  out  that 
fellow's  passport  immediately,"  said  the  superinten- 
dant  to  an  officiating  clerk,  "  and  get  rid  of  him." 


EXCHANGE  OF  SHELLS. 

The  enmity  of  the  contending  armies,  during  the 
siege  of  Ch-irleston,  was  not  confined  to  o|>en  hostility, 
but  manifested  itself  in  the  indulgence  of  irony,  too 
pointed  not  to  give  increase  to  mutual  animosity.  To- 
wards the  conclusion  of  it,  the  British  believing  that 
that  the  fare  of  the  garrison  was  both  indifferent  and 
scanty,  a  thirteen-inch  shell  was  thrown  from  their 
lines,  which  passing  immediately  over  the  Horn  Work, 
manned  by  a  dt^tachment  of  the  Ancient  Battalion  of 
Artillery  of  Charleston,  fell  into  a  morass  immediately 
in  the  rear,  without  ex[)lodins[.  An  officer  of  that 
corps  who  saw  it  h.-dge,  approaching  it  after  some 
time,  perceived  a  folded  paper  attached  to  it,  directed 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  401 

**  To  the  Yankee  Officers  in  Charleston."  The  con- 
tents of  which  expressed  a  wish,  "  That  in  theii' 
known  state  of  starvation,  they  would  accept  from  a 
compassionate  enemy,  a  supply  of  the  nec(>ssaries  they 
most  delighted  in."  The  shell  was  filled  with  rice 
and  molasses.  To  return  the  compliment,  a  shell  was 
immediately  filled  with  hosslard  and  brimstone,  and 
thrown  into  the  British  works,  accompanied  by  a  note, 
expressing  thanks  for  the  present  received,  and  begging 
that  the  articles  returned  by  a  considerate  enemy,  might 
be  appropriated  to  the  use  of  the  Scotch  gentlemen  in 
the  camp,  to  whom,  as  they  were  always  of  conse- 
quence, tliey  might  now  prove  peculiarly  acceptable. 
It  was  understood  after  the  siege,  that  the  note  was 
received,  but  not  with  that  good  humour  that  might 
have  been  expected,  had  it  been  considered  as  3.jeu 
S? esprit  resulting  from  justifiable  retaliation. 


SINGULAR    INSTANCE    OF    STERN    REPUBLICAN    StlB- 
MISSION    TO    MISFORTUNE. 

The  sternness  of  Republican  principles  may  cer- 
tainly be  carried  to  extremity.  I  received  from  Gen- 
eral Barnwell,  what  has  ai)peared  to  me  a  striking 
instance  of  it.  Hastening  to  return  to  his  military 
duties,  after  his  exchange,  accompanied  by  his  brothers 
Edward  and  Robert,  his  nephew  William  Elliott,  and 
Aid-de-Camp  John  B.  Holmes,  they  overtook  in  a 
dreary  and  desolate  pine  barren,  in  North  Caralina, 
Dr.  George  Bellinger,  riding  on  a  miserable  broken 
down  tackey,  a  blanket  serving  him  as  a  saddle,  and 
sugar-loaf  strings  as  a  bridle,  to  direct  his  motions. 
An  invitation  was  immediately  given  him  to  partake  of 

51 


402  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 

the  refreshment,  which  the  more  fortunate  group  car- 
ried with  them,  and  accepted.  Merrily  passed  the 
entertainment.  At  the  conchjsion  of  it,  General  Barn- 
well commisserating  the  deplorable  situation  of  a  gen- 
tleman of  the  most  decided  Whig  principles,  said  to 
Mr.  Elliott,  "  I  cannot  bear  the  idea,  that  a  staunch 
Patriot,  pressing  forward  to  resume  a  station  of  utility 
in  the  service  of  his  country,  should  be  thus  ill  pro- 
vided, while  your  servant  is  well  mounted,  and  riding 
at  his  ease.  An  exchange  is  necessary  for  your  credit, 
and  for  the  sake  of  humanity."  "  My  wishes,"  re- 
plied Mr.  Elliott,  "  accord  with  your  own.  Come, 
Doctor,"  continued  he,  "  take  my  servant's  horse,  and 
join  our  party.  He  will  mount  yonr's,  and  in  due 
time  rejoin  us."  "  I  have  partaken  of  your  fare," 
said  Bellinger,  "with  thankfulness;  but  can  never 
accept  a  favour,  that  I  candidly  confess,  J  should  not 
have  sufficient  generosity  to  return.  I  might  have 
spared  you  liquor  and  food,  had  you  been  in  my  place, 
and  I  in  yours;  but,  further  than  that,  I  could  not  have 
imitated  the  noble  effort  of  generous  feeling  exhibited. 
Republican  independency,  while  it  bids  me  admire 
your  liberal  offer,  prevents  me  from  profiting  by  it; 
therefore,  pass  on.  I  shall,  in  due  season,  be  with 
you." 


LEVINGSTONE. 

A  SOLDIER  of  General  Marion's  Brigade,  named 
Levingstone,  an  Irishman  by  birth,  meeting  with  an 
armed  party,  on  a  night  profoundly  dark,  suddenly 
found  a  horseman's  pistol  applied  to  his  breast,  and 
heard   the  imperious  command, — "  Declare,  instan- 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  403 

taneously,  to  what  party  you  belong,  or  you  are  a 
dead  man."  The  situation  being  such  as  to  render  it 
Highly  probable  that  it  might  be  a  British  party,  he  very 
calmly  replied,  "  I  think,  Sir,  it  would  be  a  little  more 
in  the  way  of  civility  if  you  were  to  drop  a  hint,  just 
to  let  me  know  which  side  of  the  question  you  are 
pleased  to  favour."  "  No  jesting,"  replied  the  speaker, 
"  declare  your  principles,  or  die."  "  Then,  by  Jasus," 
rejoined  Levingstone,  "  I  will  not  die  with  a  lie  in  my 
mouth.  American,  to  extremity,  you  spalpeen,  so  do 
your  worst,  and  be  damn'd  to  you."  "  You  are  an 
honest  fellow,"  said  the  inquirer,  "  we  are  friends,  and 
I  rejoice  to  meet  a  man  faithful  as  you  are  to  the 
cause  of  our  countrv." 


LOASTER. 

An  instance  of  intrepidity  in  an  individual  belonging 
to  the  Brigade  commanded  by  General  Sumter,  de- 
serves to  be  recorded.  A  detachment  of  mounted 
militia,  had  been  sent  out  by  the  General  to  watch  the 
movements  of  the  enemy,  hastening,  under  the  com- 
mand of  Lord  Rawdon,  to  the  relief  of  Ninety-Six,  and 
came  up  with  their  rear  guard  at  a  place  called  the 
Juniper  Springs,  about  fifteen  miles  distant  from 
Granby.  The  British  cavalry,  who  composed  it,  were 
of  much  superior  force,  and  being  in  every  respect  bet- 
ter prepared  for  action,  quickly  disconcerted  the  Ame- 
rican detachment,  and  put  them  to  flight.  A  poor 
German,  named  Loaster,  belonging  to  the  American 
party,  mounted  on  a  sorry  poney,  with  a  rope  bridle, 
and  corresponding  equipments,  with  no  other  arms 
than  a  musket,  which  he  had  already  fired  off,  w^s 


404  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 

assailed  by  a  British  dragoon,  who  aimed  several  des- 
perate blows  at  him  with  his  sabre,  which  weye  warded 
off  with  extraordinary  dexterity,  Loaster  calling  out 
after  every  parry,  "  Huzza  for  America."  While  in 
this  perilous  situation,  a  Mr.  Fitzpatrick,  determining, 
if  possible,  to  save  him,  rode  up,  and  with  the  butt  end 
of  his  pistol,  which  had  been  previously  discharged,, 
struck  the  dragoon  so  violent  a  blow  in  the  face  as  to 
fell  him  to  the  ground.  Loaster,  thus  happily  rescued, 
rode  off  and  escaped,  vowing  most  earnestly  never 
again  to  go  into  action  without  a  cutting  iron,  his 
musket  being  nearly  severed  in  two,  in  five  different 
places. 


GEORGE  PETRIE. 

Where  generous  interposition  preserves  the  life  of  an 
intrepid  enemy,  it  ought  not  to  be  passed  over  unnoticed. 
At  the  battle  of  Stono,  though  nearly  annihilated  by  the 
charge  made  upon  them  by  the  American  Light  Infan- 
try, led  on  by  Colonel  Henderson  and  Major  Pinckney, 
no  troops  could  have  behaved  better,  or  fought  w'nh 
greater  obstinacy,  than  the  detachment  of  the  71st 
British  Regiment,  that  sallied  from  their  line  of  Re- 
doubts to  oppose  them.  A  Captain  Campbell  was 
particularly  distinguished,  by  his  activity  and  daring 
courage,  but  ultimately  subdued  by  the  severity  of  his 
wounds,  and  loss  of  blood ;  he  was  leaning  against  a 
tree,  awaiting  the  result  of  the  contest,  when  a  Con- 
tinental soldier,  rasing  his  piece,  was  about  to  inflict 
an  exterminating  thrust  with  the  bayonet,  had  he  not 
been  prevented  by  Lieutenant  George  Petrie,  of  the 
South-Carolina  Line,  who,  upbraiding  him  for  a  want 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  405 

of  humanity  to  an  unresisting  and  fainting  foe,  arrested 
his  arm,  and  saved  his  gallant  enemy.  Colonel  Hen- 
derson, who  had  seen  the  whole  transaction,  at  this 
moment  rode  up,  and  exclaiming,  "  That  is  too  brave 
a  fellow  to  die,"  committed  him  to  the  care  of  the 
very  soldier  who  would  have  destroyed  him,  with  a 
strict  injunction  to  guard  him,  at  the  peril  of  his  life, 
from  injury. 


REMARKABLE  INCIDENT. 

A  VERY  singular  occurrence  took  place  during  the 
siege  of  Augusta,  to  the  truth  of  which  many  living 
witnesses  can  give  testimony.  I  mention  my  friend, 
Dr.  Irvine,  as  one  who  was  present  when  it  hap|)ened. 
Two  outlaws,  distinguished  by  the  enormity  of  their 
offences,  were  taken  and  condemned  to  die.  An  exe- 
cutioner could  not  be  found.  Every  soldier  in  the 
army  shrunk  with  abhorrence  from  the  office.  It  was 
at  length  determined  that  the  one  deemed  the  least 
guilty  should  receive  a  pardon,  on  the  condition  of 
serving  as  hangman,  while  his  companion  paid  the 
j)enalty  of  his  crimes.  The  terms  were  accepted,  and 
the  most  atrocious  culprit  turned  off.  He,  however, 
who  was  pardoned,  had  little  time  for  triumph,  for  his 
part  was  scarcely  performed  before  a  four  pound  shot, 
from  the  enemy's  battery,  struck  him  on  the  breast,  and 
laid  him  dead  at  the  side  of  the  man  who  had  been 
executed. 


406  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 


AN  UNINVITED  GUEST. 

During  the  siege  of  York-Town  Baron  Steuben, 
giving  a  breakfast  to  several  of  the  Field  Officers  of 
the  arm}',  in  the  course  of  the  entertainment,  while 
festivity  was  at  its  height,  and  in  anticipation  of  the 
honours  which  awaited  them,  mirth  and  good  humour 
abounded,  a  shell  from  the  enemy  fell  into  the  centre 
of  the  circle  formed  by  his  guests.  There  was  no  time 
for  retreat;  to  fall  prostrate  on  the  earth  afforded  the 
only  chance  of  escape;  every  individual  stretched  him- 
self at  his  length ;  the  shell  burst  with  tremendous 
explosion,  covering  the  whole  party  with  mud  and 
dirt,  which  rather  proved  a  source  of  merriment,  than 
serious  concern,  since  none  of  the  party  sustained  any 
further  inconvenience. 


IMPORTANT    SERVICE    OF    MAJOR    EDMUND    HYRNE. 

In  the  spring  of  the  year  1781,  General  Greene, 
commisserating  the  wretched  situation  of  the  Exiles  at 
St.  Augustine,  and  of  the  inflexible  patriots  confined 
in  the  Provost  and  Prison-ships ;  anxious  too  to  relieve, 
and  profit  by  the  services  of  the  Continental  troops 
confined  in  Charleston,  sent  his  Aid-de-Camp,  Major 
Edmund  Hyrne,  to  the  city,  with  the  hope  of  accom- 
plishing an  equitable  exchange.  A  man  better  qualified 
for  so  important  a  commission,  could  not  have  been 
selected.  He  was  liberal  in  all  his  ideas  ;  and  where 
reason  would  justify  concession,  willing  to  yield  and 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  407 

conciliate;  but  against  the  encroachments  of  arrogance 
and  injustice,  firm  as  adamant. 

The  British  commanders,  well  apprized  of  the 
talents  and  influence  of  many  of  the  individuals  within 
their  power,  showed  little  disposition  to  accede  to  the 
terms  proposed  by  the  American  negotiator;  and  on 
their  part  offered  such,  as  it  was  altogether  impossible 
for  him  to  accept.  Under  these  circumstances,  Major 
Hyrne,  who  was  in  the  constant  habit  of  visiting  the 
Prison-Ships,  informed  the  unfortunates  in  captivity, 
*'  that  his  efforts  to  relieve  them,  would,  according  to 
appearances,  prove  altogether  abortive  ;  and  that  they 
must  endeavour  to  support  with  patience  and  fortitude, 
the  evils  they  were  destined  to  endure."  "  But  one 
hope  remains,"  he  added,  "  of  bringing  the  business 
to  a  happy  conclusion ;  and  the  test  shall  be  made 
without  delay." 

Returning  to  his  quarters,  a  note  was  sent  to  every 
British  officer  enjoying  the  benefit  of  a  parole,  (of 
whom  there  were,  at  that  time,  a  very  considerable 
number  within  the  garrison)  desiring  that  pre[)aration 
should  be  made  to  accompany  him,  at  an  early  day,  to 
the  country,  as  every  effort  to  accomplish  an  exchange 
had  proved  fruitless  ;  and  it  could  not  be  expected,  that 
liberty  should  be  longer  granted  to  them,  while  men  of 
the  first  character  and  highest  respectability  in  the 
State,  were  subjected  to  all  the  miseries  and  inconve- 
niences of  the  most  rigourous  confinement. 

The  effect  of  this  notice  was  instantaneously  per- 
ceptible. The  doors  of  the  Commandant  were  be- 
sieged by  petitioners,  (many  of  high  rank  and  powerful 
connexions)  soliciting  him  to  relinquish  his  opinions ; 
and  by  relaxing,  in  due  season,  his  severity,  save 
them  from  the  horrors  and  destruction  which  they 
deemed  inevitable,  should  they  be  compelled,  in  the 
month  of  June,  to  remove  into  the  sickly  interior  coun- 
try.      Their   clamours  and   reiterated  remonstrances 


408  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 

Goiild  not  be  resisted — the  dictates  of  policy  yielded 
before  them.  The  terms  of  exchange  were  speedily 
adjusted,  and  the  gratified  prisoners  restored  to  liberty 
and  their  country. 


LIEUTENANT  SAMUEL  SELDON, 

OF    VIRGINIA. 

This  gallant  officer  commanded  one  of  the  advanced 
parties,  when  General  Greene,  after  having  invpsted 
the  post  at  Ninety-Six  for  several  weeks,  determined 
to  attempt  its  reduction  by  assault.  At  the  signal  ap- 
pointed to  attack,  Seldon  entered  the  ditch  of  the 
principal  work ;  and  while  his  right  arm  was  raised 
with  the  intention  of  drawing  down  a  sand-bag  from 
the  top  of  the  parapet,  a  ball  entering  his  wrist,  shat- 
tered the  bone  of  the  limb  nearly  to  the  shoulder. 
For  so  severe  a  wound,  the  only  remedy  was  amputa- 
tion. It  is  well  known,  that  on  such  occasions,  the 
operating  Surgeon  requires  the  assistance  of  several 
persons  to  hold  tiie  patient's  limb,  and  to  support  him- 
To  this  regulation  Seldon  would  not  submit.  It  was 
hjs  right  arm  he  was  about  to  lose.  He  sustained  it 
with  his  left  during  the  operation,  his  eyes  fixed 
steadily  on  it ;  nor  uttered  a  word,  till  the  saw  reached 
the  marrow,  when  in  a  composed  tone  and  manner, 
he  said,  "  I  pray  you,  Doctor,  be  quick."  When  the 
business  was  completed,  he  feelingly  exclaimed,  "  I 
am  sorry  that  it  is  my  right  arm  ;  if  it  had  been  my 
left,  the  occasion  would  have  caused  me  to  glory  in 
the  loss."  He  recovered  and  lived  many  years  after- 
wards, the  object  of  affection  and  esteem  to  all  who 
had  the  good  fortune  to  know  him. 


JVIISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  409 


INSTANCE  OF  TARLETON'S  SEVERITY. 

The  advancement  of  a  powerful  and  victorious 
army  into  the  interior  country,  immediately  subsequent 
to  the  fall  of  Charleston,  caused  many  of  the  inhabi- 
tants, rather  than  witness  the  desolation  of  their  pro- 
perty, to  take  protections.  In  the  neighbourhood  of 
Rocky  Mount  a  young  man  named  Stroud  did  so,  but 
speedily  repenting  the  dereliction  of  his  duty  to  his 
country,  resumed  his  arms  in  her  defence.  In  a  ren- 
counter with  Tarleton,'  which  happened  immediately 
after,  he  was  taken  and  instantaneously,  without  form 
of  trial,  hung  up,  in  terrorem,  on  the  public  road,  with 
a  label  attached  to  his  back,  proclaiming, — "  Such 
shall  be  the  fate  of  the  man  who  presumes  to  cut  him 
down."  The  body  was  thus  exposed  for  upwards  of 
three  weeks,  when  an  affectionate  sister  ventured  out, 
performed  the  pious  act,  and  gave  the  body  interment. 


ADDITIONAL  INSTANCES  OF  SEVERITY. 

From  the  same  neighbourhood  of  Rocky  Mount,  an 
almost  beardless  youth,  of  the  name  of  Wade,  was 
seduced  to  enrol  himself  in  th«  ranks  of  Tarleton's 
Legion.  Repentance  quickJy  followed  his  departure 
from  duty,  and  he  deserted  with  the  hope  of  rejoining 
h)s  family  and  friends.  Fate  forbade  it.  He  was  taken, 
tried,  and  sentenced  to  receive  a  thousand  lashes.  I 
need  scarcely  relate  the  sequel  !  He  expired  under 
the  infliction  of  the  punishment ! 


The  Anecdote  which  follows,  was  presented  by  a 
gentleman,  intimately  acquainted  with  Colonel  For- 
rest, and  as  related  by  him,  giving  a  true  picture  of 

^2 


410  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 

the  times,  appears  worthy  to  be  recorded.  "  At  the 
period  of  the  war,  when  our  Treasury  was  most  ex- 
hausted, the  men  of  my  regiment  became  so  refrac- 
tory from  the  want  of  pay,  that  I  was  compelled  to 
resort  to  every  shift  and  stratagem  to  keep  them  in 
necessary  subordination.  Necessity  at  last  obliged 
me  to  enter  into  a  compromise  with  them.  I  pledged 
myself,  that  if  they  would  only  promise  to  conduct 
themselves  with  propriety,  and  preserve  the  discipline 
essential  to  the  well  being  of  the  army,  during  my 
absence,  that  I  would  personally  apply  to  the  Treasury, 
forcibly  represent  their  grievances,  and  exert  every 
energy  to  obtain  the  justice  they  required.  My  pro- 
posal was  acceded  to,  and  I  quitted  the  regiment. 
Having,  at  the  period,  many  friends  in  the  Paymaster's 
Department,  my  representations  were  attended  to,  and 
through  their  kind  attention  I  obtained  a  month's  pay, 
according  to  the  tenor  of  my  request.  Arriving  in  camp, 
I  ordered  my  Regiment  to  be  paraded,  and  candidly 
submitted  to  them  the  result  of  my  negotiation.  The 
entire  corps  expressed  content  aiid  satisfaction,  save 
only  one  individual,  a  son  of  Erin,  who  appeared  to 
exhibit  decided  marks  of  extreme  discontent.  Dissa- 
tisfied with  his  conduct,  and  more  highly  irritated  by 
his  surly  looks,  I  approached,  and  upbraiding  him  for 
his  unreasonable  behaviour,  asked  his  motive  for  show- 
ing such  signs  of  discontent,  while  the  rest  of  the 
Regiment,  his  companion  in  arms,  appeared  cheerful 
and  well  pleased  on  the  occasion.  He  sarcastically 
replied, — "  Upon  my  salvation,  my  Colonel,  and  the 
honour  of  a  true  soldier,  which  I  will  be  bound  to  say 
you  have  ever  found  me  to  be,  I  had  not  the  least  idea 
of  being  dissatisfied  with  your  happy  negotiation;  God 
bless  you,  my  jewel,  for  I  am  sure  you  have  done  as 
much  for  us,  and  more  than  any  other,  besides  yourseif, 
could  have  done  any  how;  but  I  believe  I  was  only 
sorry  a  little,  when  I  looked  so  highly  provoked,  that 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  411 

your  honour  had  not  brought  me  an  old  razor  instead 
oi  my  month'' s  pay,  that  I  might  scrape  my  beard  with, 
just  to  appear  a  little  dacent  on  parade." 


How  little  the  unfortunates,  who  had  accepted  Bri- 
tish protections,  were  to  be  depended  upon,  with  what 
•apathy  they  offered  up  their  petitions  to  heaven  for  the 
prosperity  of  their  Sovereign,  and  success  of  his  arms, 
may  be  judged  of  from  an  incident  that  occurred  in  the 
Parish  Church  of  St.  James',  Goose  Creek.  The 
Rev.  Mr.  Ellington,  in  the  couse  of  service,  praying, 
"  That  it  may  please  thee  to  bless  and  preserve  his 
most  gracious  Majesty,  our  Sovereign  Lord  King 
George,"  a  dead  silence  ensued,  and  instead  of  the 
usual  response,  "  We  beseech  thee  to  hear  us,  good 
Lord,"  a  murmuring  voice  pronounced,  "  Good  Lord; 
deliver  us." 


While  the  administration  of  Great  Britain  were 
carrying  on  the  war  with  ruthless  severity,  it  appears 
to  have  been  a  constant  object  with  them,  to  cherish 
the  acknowledged  prejudices  of  the  Sovereign  against 
his  American  subjects.  That  their  effort  was  crowned 
with  success,  cannot  be  doubted,  for  such  was  the  ab- 
horrence of  the  King  to  every  invention  deemed  Ame- 
rican, that  he  ordered  the  sharp  conductors  recom- 
mended by  Dr.  Franklin,  to  be  removed  from  Buck- 
ingham House,  and  blunt  ones  to  be  substituted  in  their 
place.  On  this  occasion  the  following  pointed  Epigram 
appeared  in  one  of  the  morning  prints. 

"  While  you,  great  George,  for  knowledge  huntj 

And  sharp  conductors  change  for  blunt, 

The  nation  's  out  of  joint ; 

FRANKtiN  a  wiser  scheme  pursues, 

And  all  your  thunder  heedless  views- 

By  sticking  lo  the  point" 


412  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 

But  in  genuine  point,  and  happy  allusion  to  the  pro- 
pensities of  the  monarch,  no  lines  were  offered  to  the 
public  more  severe  than  those  which  follow : 

"  In  eastern  kingdoms,  of  the  weakest  man, 

With  idiot  Councils,  rules  the  grave  Divan. 

Nor  there  alone  of  late  such  wonders  rest, 

But  reach  the  confines  of  the  enlightened  west  ; 

Where  some  dull  leader,  fixed,  by  partial  fate, 

Now  turns  a  button — now  overturns  a  State. 

Now  for  his  boys  a  whistle  carves  in  wood. 

Or  signs  a  wan-ant  for  a  nation's  blood. 

The  place  of  Kings,  thus  toymens'  pupils  take, 

.And  wield  the  sceptre  they  were  born  to  make. 

Turn,  cruel  Pinchbeck,*  lengthen  yet  thy  score, 

And  turn  thy  Monarch  at  one  corkscrew  more  ; 

Lest  England's  sons,  a  game  like  thine  should  play,. 

Nor  keep  the  workmen  thou  hast  turned  away." 

Even  within  the  British  garrisons,  in  the  presence  of 
the  Commander  in  Chief,  jests  were  indulged  in,  such 
as  plainly  evinced  how  faint  the  hope  of  a  successful 
issue  of  the  war. 

During  an  interval  of  dancing,  at  a  splendid  ball 
given  by  the  officers  of  the  army,  to  the  ladies  of  New- 
York.  Sir  Henry  Clinton,  previously  engaged  in  con- 
versation with  Miss  Franks,  called  out  to  the  musicians, 
"  Give  us,  Britons  strike  home.'^  "  The  Commander 
in  Chief  has  made  a  mistake,"  exclaimed  the  lady; 
"  he  meant  to  say,  Britons — go  home.^^ 


MISS  FRANKS. 

This  intelligent  and  highly  accomi)lished  lady,  in 
throwing  the  pointed  shafts  of  her  wit,  spared  neither 
friend  or  foe.     Having  mentioned  the  "  palpable  hit," 

*  Phichbeck  was  a  toyman,  and  manufacturer  of  every  species  of  knick 
knack. 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  416 

given  to  Sir  Henry  Clinton,  it  is  but  fair  to  show,  how 
keen  her   irony  when  aimed  against   the  foes  of  Bri- 
tain.    At  the  Mischianza,  given  at  Philadelphia  by  the 
officers  of  the  British  army  to  Sir  William  Howe,  pre- 
viously to  his  relinquishment  of  command.  Miss  Franks 
appeared  as  one  of  the  Princesses,  in  sui)poriin°;  whose 
claims   to   superior  beauty  and  accomplishment,  the 
assembled  Knights  were  to  contend  at  a  Tournament 
exhibited.     The  evacuation  of  the  city  immediately 
following.  Miss  Franks  remained  behind.     Lieutenant 
Colonel  Jack  Steward   of  Maryland,  whose  previous 
intimacy  with  her,  could  alone  justify  the  familiarity  of 
his  conduct,  dressed  out  in  a  handsome  suit  of  scarlet, 
taking  an  early  occasion  to  pay  his  compliments,  said 
to  tier  in  the  true  spirit  of  gallantry,  "  I  have  adopted 
your  colours,  my  Princess,  the  better  to  secure  a  cour- 
teous reception — deign  to  smile  on  a  true  Knight.     To 
this  speech  Miss  Franks  made  no  reply  ;   but   turning 
to   the   company    who  surrounded   her,  exclaimed — 
"  How  the  Ass  glories  in  the  Lion's  skin." 

Nor  was  this  the  only  rub  experienced  by  the  Lieu- 
tenant Colonel.  While  the  company  were  enjoying 
themselves  in  lively  conversation,  their  mirth  was  in- 
terrupted by  loud  clamours  from  the  street,  which 
occasioned  them  to  hasten  to  the  windows,  the  better 
to  ascertain  the  cause.  High  head-dresses  were  then 
the  reigning  fashion  among  the  British  belles.  A  fe- 
male appeared  on  the  street,  surrounded  by  a  crowd  of 
idlers,  ragged  in  her  apparel,  and  bare-foot,  but  adorned 
with  a  towring  head-dress  in  the  extreme  of  the  mode. 
Miss  Franks  readily  perceived  the  intent  of  this  tumul- 
tuous visit ;  and  on  the  Lieutenant  Colonel's  observing, 
that  the  lady  was  equipped  altogether  in  the  English 
fashion,  replied,  "  Not  altogether,  Colonel ;  for  though 
the  style  of  her  head  is  British,  her  shoes  and  stock- 
ings are  in  the  genuine  Continental  fashion.''^ 


414  MILCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 

There  were  very  fi^w  men  qualified  to  enter  the  lists 
with  this  intelligent  lady — for  her  information  was  ex- 
tensive, and  she  had  wit  at  will.  She  did,  however, 
on  one  occasion,  meet  a  superior,  and  appeared  bereft 
of  her  brilliancy  of  talent,  by  receiving  with  aiiger^ 
what  was  only  intended  as  a  sally  to  excite  merriment. 
I  allude  to  her  correspondence  with  General  Charles 
Lee,  whose  letter  is  but  little  known,  and  certainly 
possesses  a  stamp  of  humour  that  renders  it  worthy 
to  be  preserved. 


GENERAL  LEE's  LETTER  TO  MISS  FRANKS. 

<'  Madam, 

"  When  an  ofticer  of  the  respectable  rank  I  bear,  is  grossly 
traduced  and  calumniated,  it  is  incumbent  on  him  to  clear  up  the 
affair  to  the  world,  with  as  little  delay  as  possible.  The  spirit  of 
defamation  and  calumny  (I  am  sorry  to  say  it)  is  grown  to  a  pro- 
digious and  intolerable  height  on  this  Continent.  If  you  had  accused 
me  of  a  design  to  procrastinate  the  war,  or  of  holding  treasonable 
correspondence  with  the  enemy,  I  could  have  borne  it :  this  I  am 
used  to ;  and  this  happened  to  the  great  Fabius  Maximus.  If  you 
had  accused  me  of  getting  drunk,  as  often  as  I  could  get  liquor,  as 
two  Alexanders  the  Great  have  been  charged  with  the  vice,  I  should 
perhaps  have  sat  patient  under  the  imputation ;  or  even  if  you  had 
given  the  plainest  hints,  that  I  had  stolen  the  soldiers  shirts,  this  I 
could  have  put  up  with,  as  the  great  Duke  of  Marlborouoh  would 
have  been  an  example :  or  if  you  had  contented  yourself  with  assert- 
ing that  I  was  so  abominable  a  sloven,  as  never  to  part  v/ith  my  shirt, 
until  my  shirt  parted  with  me,  the  anecdotes  of  my  illustrious  name- 
sake of  Sweden*  would  have  administered  some  comfort  to  me.  But 
the  calu)nny  you  have,  in  the  fertility  of  your  malicious  wit,  chosen 
to  invent,  is  of  so  new,  so  unprecedented,  and  so  hellish  a  kind,  as 
vv  ould  make  Job  himself  swear  like  a  Virginia  Colonel. 

"  Is  it  possible  that  the  celebrated  Miss  FRANKS,t  a  lady  who  lias 
iiad  every  human  and  Divine  advantage,  who  has  read,  (or  at  least 

*  Charles  12th.  t  The  young  lady  was  a  Jewess. 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  415 

might  have  read)  in  the  originals,  the  New  and  Old  Testaments, 
(though  I  am  afraid  she  too  seldom  looks  even  into  the  translations) 
I  say,  is  it  possible  that  Miss  Franks,  with  every  human  and  Divine 
advantage,  who  might,  and  ought  to  have  read  these  two  good  books, 
which  (an  old  Welch  nurse,  whose  uncle  was  reckoned  the  best 
preacher  in  Merionethshire,  assured  me)  enjoin  charity,  and  denounce 
vengeance  against  slander  and  evil  speaking  ;  is  it  possible,  I  agaia 
repeat  it,  that  Miss  Franks  should,  in  the  face  of  day,  carry  her  ma- 
lignity so  far,  in  the  presence  of  three  most  respectable  perspnages  ; 
(one  of  the  oldest  religion  in  the  world,  one  of  the  newest,  for  he  is  a 
New-Light  Man,  and  the  other,  most  probably,  of  na  religion  at  all, 
as  he  is  an  English  sailor)  but  I  demand  it  again  and  again,  is  it  pos- 
sible that  Miss  Franks  should  assert  it,  in  the  presence  of  these  re- 
spectable personages,  '  that  I  wore  green  breeches  patched  with 
leather  ?'  To  convict  you,  therefore,  of  the  falsehood  of  this  most 
diabolical  slander,  to  put  you  to  eternal  silence,  (if  you  are  not  past  all 
grace)  and  to  cover  you  with  a  much  larger  patch  of  infamy  than  you 
have  wantonly  endeavoured  to  fix  on  my  breeches,  I  have  thought 
proper,  by  the  advice  of  three  very  grave  friends,  (lawyers  and  mem- 
bers of  Congress,  of  course  excellent  judges  of  delicate  points  of 
honour)  to  send  you  the  said  breeches,  and  with  the  consciousness  of 
truth  on  my  side,  to  submit  them  to  the  most  severe  inspection  and 
scrutiny  of  you,  and  all  those  who  may  have  entered  into  this  wicked 
cabal,  against  my  honour  and  reputation.  I  say  I  dare  you,  and 
your  whole  junto,  to  your  worst ;  turn  them,  examine  them  inside  and 
outside,  and  if  you  find  them  to  be  green  breeches  patched  with 
leather,  and  not  actually  legitimate  Sherry  \  allies,*  such  as  his  Ma- 
jesty of  Poland  wears,  (who,  let  me  tell  you,  is  a  man  who  has  made 
more  fashions  than  all  your  knights  of  the  Mischianzat  put  together, 
notwithstanding  their  beauties)  I  repeat  it,  (though  I  am  almost  out 
of  breath  with  repetitions  and  parenthesis)  that  if  those  are  proved  to 
be  patched  green  breeches,  and  not  legitimate  Sherry  Vallies,  (which 
a  man  of  the  first  hon  ton  might  be  proud  of)  I  will  submit  in  silence 
to  all  the  scurrility  which  I  have  no  doubt  you  and  your  abettors  are 

*  A  kind  of  long  breeches,  reaching  to  the  ancle,  witli  a  broad  stripe  of 
leather  on  the  inside  of  the  thigh,  for  the  conveniency  of  riding. 

t  An  entertainment  given  to  General  Howe,  just  before  his  departure  for  Eu' 
rope,  at  which  were  introduced  tilts  and  tournaments  in  lionour  of  the  ladies, 
of  whom  Miss  Franks  was  one. 


416  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 

prepared  to  pour  out  against  me,  in  the  public  papers,  on  this  impor- 
tant and  interesting  occasion.  But  Madam  !  Madam  !  reputation,  (as 
'  Common  Sense'  very  sensibly,  though  not  very  uncommonly,  ob- 
serves) is  a  very  serious  thing.  You  have  already  injured  me  in  the 
tenderest  part,  and  I  demand  satisfaction;  and  as  you  cannot  be 
ignorant  of  the  laws  of  duelling,  having  conversed  with  so  many  Irish 
officers,  whose  favourite  topic  it  is,  particularly  in  the  company  of 
ladies,  I  insist  on  the  privilege  of  the  injured  party,  which  is  to  name 
his  hour  and  weapons  ;  and,  as  I  intend  it  to  be  a  very  serious  affair, 
will  not  admit  of  any  seconds ;  as  you  may  depend  upon  it  Miss 
Franks,  that  whatever  may  be  your  spirit  on  the  occasion,  the  world 
shall  never  accuse  General  Lee  of  having  turned  his  back  upon  you. 
In  the  mean  time,  I  am  yours,  C.  L. 

"  P.  S.  I  have  communicated  the  affair  only  to  my  confidential 
friend,  who  has  mentioned  it  to  no  more  than  seven  members  of  Con- 
gress, and  nineteen  women,  six  of  whom  were  old  maids,  so  that  there 
is  no  danger  of  its  taking  wind  on  my  side,  and  I  hope  you  will  be 
equally  guarded  on  your  part." 


About  the  period  of  the  final  departure  of  the  Bri- 
tish from  New-York,  an  excellent  repartee  made  by 
Major  Upham,  Aid-de-Camp  to  Lord  Dorchester,  to 
Miss  Susan  Livingston,  has  been  much  celebrated. 
"  In  mercy,  Major,"  said  Miss  Livingston,  ''  use  your 
influence  with  the  Commander  in  Chief,  to  accelerate 
the  evacuation  of  the  city  ;  for  among  your  encarce- 
rated  belles,  your  Mischianza  Princesses,  the  scarlet 
fever  must  continue  to  rage  till  your  departure."  "  1 
should  studiously  second  your  wishes,"  replied  the 
Major,  "  were  I  not  apprehensive,  that  freed  from  the 
prevailing  malady,  a  worse  would  follow,  and  that 
they  would  be  immediately  tormented  with  die  Blue 
Devils  y 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  417 


SIR  GUY  CARLTON. 

While  the  gallant  defence  of  Quebec  by  General 
Carlton,  evinced  the  excellence  of  his  military  talents, 
and  his  liberal  treatment  of  the  vanquished  did  honour 
to  his  humanity,  particular  credit  is  due  to  him,  for  his 
skilful  management  even  of  the  prejudices  of  the 
troops  under  his  command.  Apprehending,  during  the 
protracted  siege,  that  the  return  of  St.  Patrick's  Day 
would  occasion  the  soldiers  of  the  garrison,  chiefly 
Irishmen,  to  indulge  too  freely  in  generous  libations  to 
the  memory  of  the  Patron  Saint  of  Erin  ;  and  that  his 
vigilant  adversary  would  profit  by  their  intemperance 
to  attack  the  town;  in  orders,  issued  on  the  16th  of 
March,  he  invited  "  AH  true  Irishmen  to  meet  him  on 
the  following  day,  at  12  o'clock,  on  parade,  to  drink 
the  health  of  the  King,  St.  Patrick's  Day  being,  for 
that  year  onhj,  put  off  till  the  4ih  of  June."  An 
Irishman  himself,  and  highly  honoured  by  all  who 
served  under  him,  his  proposition  was  applauded,  and 
perfect  sobriety  reigned  ;  where,  according  to  all  for- 
mer experience,  riot  and  disorder  alone  were  to  be 
looked  for. 


.      CAPTAIN  MILLIGAN. 

The  esprit  du  corps,  which  so  decidedly  marks  the 
attachment  of  military  men  to  their  companions  in 
arms,  was  never  more  strikingly  exhibited  than  on  the 
occasion  of  which  I  am  now  to  speak 

On  the  4th  of  July,  1798,  while  the  Society  of  the 
Cincinnati  were   celebrating  the  Anniversary  of  the 

63 


418  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 

Independency  of  the  United  States,  a  letter  was  de- 
livered to  Major  Lining,  the  Treasurer,  a  part  of  whose 
duty  it  was,  to  levy  fines  on  absentees,  and  other  de- 
faulters, from  Captain  Milligan,  a  Member  of  the 
Association.     It  was  written  in  these  words  : 


"••  My  Dear  Majob, 

"  The  Society,  at  its  first  formation,  very  properly  imposed  u 
fine  upon  every  Member,  who  being  within  reach  of  the  city,  ne- 
glected to  attend  the  celebration  of  the  Birth  Day  of  our  Liberties. 
A  fine  too,  to  an  equal  amount,  was  imposed  on  every  one,  who  on 
the  decease  of  a  Brother  Soldier,  neglected  to  pay  due  honour  to  his 
memory,  by  absenting  himself  from  his  funeral.  I  have  a  little  to 
say  on  both  subjects.  On  the  verge  of  the  grave,  with  scarcely 
strength  to  hold  my  pen,  suffering  under  the  affliction  of  extreme 
penury,  I  think  it  no  degradation  to  state,  that  the  Guinea  which  I 
forfeit  this  day,  by  non-attendance,  while  it  can  add  but  a  trifle  to 
your  funds,  will  be  essentially  useful  to  my  afflicted  family.  Let 
me  hope,  then,  from  the  generous  sympathy  of  your  hearts,  that  the 
fine  be,  on  this  occasion,  remitted. 

"  And  now,  that  my  friends  are  collected  to  celebrate  the  event, 
tlie  most  propitious  to  the  happiness  of  man  that  the  world  ever  wit- 
nessed, permit  me,  while  I  offer  my  congratulations,  wishing  them 
much  present  enjoyment,  and  future  felicity,  to  request,  that  as  many 
of  them  as  can  make  it  convenient,  will  do  me  the  honour  to  atte'pd 
my  funeral,  which,  from  certain  feelings  not  at  all  calculated  to  de- 
ceive, must  necessarily  happen  within  a  very  few  days.  Attention 
to  this,  my  earnest  solicitation,  will  not  fail  to  sooth  the  last  moments 
of  your  brother,  and  affectionate  well-wisher, 

"  T.  MILLIGAN." 

Within  a  week  Captain  Milligan  expired,  justly  and 
sincerely  lamented.  The  Society,  to  a  man,  attended 
his  funeral — they  did  more,  they  adopted  and  educated 
his  orphan  daughter,  who  married  well,  and  is  now 
happily  settled  in  Ireland. 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  419 


ROMANTIC  ENTERPRISE. 

The  Anecdote  which  follows  is  given  on  the  autho- 
rity of  Mr.  Samuel  Brailsford,  formerly  of  Bristol,  in 
Great  Britain.  He  was  a  native  of  South-Carolina, 
and  enthusiastically  attached  to  the  American  cause, 
which  gained  him  the  affection  and  confidence  of  all 
his  youthful  countrymen,  who,  at  the  commencement 
of  the  Revolutionary  War,  were  pursuing  their  studies 
in  Europe.  Inspired  with  the  most  exalted  admiration 
of  Sccevola,  and  tlie  Roman  youths,  who  aimed,  by  the 
devotion  of  their  lives,  to  give  liberty  to  Rome,  by  cut- 
ting off  Porsenna,  its  most  formidable  enemy ;  an  in- 
trepid enthusiast,  in  the  year  1775  proposed,  in  an 
assembly  of  twenty  of  his  countrymen,  who  had  met 
in  London,  that  each  of  them,  in  the  disguise  of  a 
sailor,  should  enter  on  board  of  as  many  different  Bri- 
tish men  of  war,  and  pledge  himself,  by  a  solemn  oath, 
within  a  limited  time,  to  blow  up  the  vessel  in  which 
he  embarked.  So  desperate  a  scheme  could  only  have 
originated  in  a  mind  deeply  wounded  by  the  injuries 
inflicted  upon  his  country;  and  my  knowledge  of  the 
noble  and  generous  feeling  of  the  mover,  makes  me 
bold  to  say,  that  in  a  moment  of  sober  reflection,  he 
would  have  been  the  last  to  encourage  it.  The  recom- 
mendation, however,  was  not  received,  at  the  moment, 
as  he  wished  it  to  be.  Some  five  or  six  of  the  com- 
pany approved  it,  and  declared  themselves  ready  to 
second  his  wishes,  and  give  the  pledge  required ;  but 
by  the  majority,  open  generous  hostility  was  preferred, 
and  the  project  was  abandoned. 


420  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES- 


M'GILL  AND  VAN  SKIVER. 

1  WOULD  not,  when  speaking  of  the  good  conduct 
and  meritorious  services  of  several  of  the  Legionary 
soldiers,  in  a  former  part  of  these  Anecdotes,  have  in- 
troduced the  names  of  the  men  I  am  now  to  mention, 
on  any  consideration.  They  belonged,  it  is  true,  to  the 
corps,  but  their  crimes  far  more  than  their  talents  or 
their  virtues  attracted  attention ;  and  they  are  noio 
noticed  merely  to  show,  when  once  the  path  of  honour 
is  forsaken,  to  how  great  a  degree  human  depravity 
can  be  extended.  It  must,  however,  be  acknowledged 
that  they  w^ere  not  equally  atrocious  in  villainy;  the 
errors  of  M'Gill  were  the  result  of  intemperance  ;  Van 
Skiver's  proceeded  from  consummate  and  boundless 
depravity. 

In  giving  an  account  of  the  ardour  with  which 
Lieutenant  Colonel  John  Laurens  sought,  on  ail  occa- 
sions, to  encounter  the  enemy,  I  mentioned  that  a  Bri- 
tish soldier,  who  had  been  whipped  and  drummed  out 
of  the  64th  Regiment  for  intemperance,  had,  by  care- 
lessly throwing  his  coat  on  a  bush,  endangered  the  life 
not  only  of  that  gallant  officer,  but  of  many  of  the  most 
intrepid  soldiers  of  the  Legion,  who  swam  the  Ashley 
River,  in  the  expectation  of  immediately  engaging  an 
ambuscaded  force,  whose  position  accident  alone  had 
betrayed. 

Some  months  after  this,  Sergeant  Du  Coin,  of  Ru- 
dolph's company,  who  had  contrived  to  gain  the  affec- 
tions of  a  widow  possessing  considerable  property, 
solicited  his  discharge,  and  was  promised  it,  on  con- 
dition of  bringing  forward  four  substitutes  to  supply 
his  place  in  the  Regiment.  Captain  Rudolph  retiring, 
at  the  moment,  to  sick  quarters,  left  it  to  my  charge  to 
examine  the  men  vi^ho  should  be  offered  by  Du  Coin, 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  421 

and,  if  approved,  to  biins  the  business  to  a  close,  cau- 
tioning me  at  the  same  time,  to  remember  the  strict 
injunctions  of  Lee,  never  to  enlist  a  British  soldier,  a 
foreigner,  or  a  drunkard.  The  substitutes  were  brought 
forward.     Tin-ee   fine    looking   youths,   recently  dis- 
charged from  the  North-Carolina  Line,  the  time  of 
their  service  having  expired,  were  examined,  approved, 
and  enlisted.     A  remarkably  handsome  man,  of  fine 
martial  appearance,  well  dressed,  and  of  a  prepossess- 
ing countenance,  now  advanced,  declaring  himself  a 
Pennsylvanian,  of  Irish  parentage,  who,  ambitious  to 
distinguish  himself,  had  taken  along  journey  purposely 
to  see  service.     He  looked  and  acted  his  part  so  admi- 
rably, that  I  was  completely  thrown  off  my  guard,  and 
enlisted  him  also,  but  had  speedily  the  mortification  to 
find,  that  I  had  so  far  departed  from  my  instructions, 
as  to  have  admitted  into  the  corps  a  British  soldier,  a 
foreigner,  and  an  habitual  drunkard.     His  propensity 
to  liquor  was  in  a  few  days  discovered,  and  on  my  re- 
primanding him  for  it,  he,  with  undaunted  insolence, 
exclaimed,   "  You,  Sir,  are  the  last  man  who  should 
find  fault;  for,  at  our  first  meeting,  you  may  remember, 
that  I  frankly  told  you  that  I  had  been  expelled  with 
disgrace  from  <he  64th  British  Regiment,  because  the 
the  drummer's  lash  had  lost  all  its  terrors  for  me,  when 
I  could  lay  my  hand   on  liquor.     You  saw   that  my 
flayed  back  would  not  admit  the  use  of  my  coat,  so 
that  the  error   of  my  enlistment   is  altogether  your 
own."     I  would  not  have  wasted  time  on  a  subject  so 
little  important,  were  it  not  to  show,  that  even  in 
minds  the  most  debased,  instances  may  occur  of  gene- 
rous  feeling,  that  are   creditable   to   human  nature. 
M^Gill,  by  associating  with  men  of  regular  habits, 
became  daily  more  humanized,  and  was  on  the  whole 
a  good,  though,  occasionally,  an  irregular  soldier. 

Captain  James  Grahame,  of  the  British  64th  Re- 
giment, married  and  settled  in  South-Carolina.  It  was 


422  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 

sorAe  time  after  the  peace,  that  riding  out  unarmed,  ia 
the  neighbourhood  of  his  plantation,  he  was  accosted 
by  a  man  in  military  dress,  with  a  naked  bayonet  in 
his  hand,  who  stepping  up  in  front  of  his  horse,  and 
seizing  the  bridle,  said,  "  I  suppose.  Captain  Grahame, 
you  have  no  inclination  to  recognize  an  old  acquaint- 
ance, particularly  one  so  much  the  victim  of  your 
severity  as  I  have  been."  "  On  the  contrary,  M'Gill," 
replied  the  Captain,  "  1  feel  no  inclination  to  deny  my 
knowledge  of  you, — 1  remember  you  perfectly;  and 
although  1  cannot  mistuiderstand  your  present  inten- 
tion, and  am  probably  destined  to  fall  by  your  hand, 
do  not  hesitate  to  tell  you,  what,  as  a  soldier  well 
acquainted  with  his  duty,  you  know  to  be  strictly  cor- 
rect, that  finding  you  drunk  on  your  post,  I  brought 
you,  and  very  properly,  to  punishment.  The  love  of 
]ife  can  make  no  change  in  my  sentiments.  Were  it 
to  do  over  again,  I  would  act  as  I  have  done."  "  And 
you  would  do  right,"  said  M'Gill,  sheathing  his  bayo- 
net. "Captain  Grahame,  my  resentments  cease:  I 
thought  I  never  could  have  pardoned  you ;  but  I  now 
consider  my  enmity  altogether  unjust,  my  punishment 
and  disgrace  richly  merited.  Pass  on ;  you  need  never 
more  fear  injury  from  me."  Saying  this  he  bowed  and 
retired. 

Such  a  display  of  generous  feeling  encourages  the 
hope  of  a  return  to  virtue.  But,  I  am  now  to  speak 
of  a  character  so  completely  abandoned,  that  from  the 
free  and  constant  indulgence  of  vice,  clothed  in  its 
darkest  attributes,  it  appeared  alone  susceptible  of  re- 
ceiving delight  and  gratification. 

Van  Skiver  was  a  native  of  New-York,  and  private 
soldier  in  the  corps  raised  by  Colonel  Buskirk,  for  the 
service  of  Great  Britain.  A  Loyalist  from  convenience, 
it  is  probable  that  some  flagrant  irregularity  had  subjetc- 
ed  him  to  the  anger  of  his  superiors;  and  that  to  avoid 
merited  punishment,  he  had  sought  security  by  desertion. 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  423 

Arrived  at  the  American  camp,  she  showed  so  much  of 
inveterate  and   deadly  animosity  against  the  friends 
whom  he  had  abandoned,  and  spoke  with  such  confi- 
dence  of  the    practicability  of  injuring  them  by   an 
attack  upon  their  out-posts,  that   Lieutenant  Colonel 
Lee   was  induced  to  listen  to  his  plans   with  compla- 
cency, and  ultimately  to  accede  to  his  proposal,  to 
attempt  the  carrying  of  the  post  at  Paulas'  Hook,  by 
surprise.     Entire  confidence,  however,  was  not  placed 
in  him.     Armed  with  an  axe,  he  was  placed  at  the 
head  of  the  advancing  column,  a  file   of  men  with 
fixed   bayonets,   following   immediately    in    his   rear, 
ready  to  terminate  his  existence,  if  he  either  faltered, 
or  showed  the  slightest  symptom  of  treachery.     With 
steady  step,  and   undaunted   resolution,  he  advanced 
and   actually  cut  down  two  barriers   in   succession, 
giving  free  admission  to  our  troops  into  the  body  of  the 
place;  a  third,  however,  was  still  to  be  gained,  which 
was  defended  with  great  resolution,  and  so  heavy  a  fire 
kept  up  upon  the  assailants,  that  after  many  fruitless 
efforts  to  dislodge  the  enemy,  they  were  compelled  to 
retire.     It  might  be  imagined,  that  such  a  display  of 
hostility  against  the  British,  might  have  caused  Van 
Skiver  to  be  ranked  amongst  the   most  determined  of 
their  enemies ;  but,  even  at  the  moment,  his  appear- 
ance of  zeal  was  merely  intended  as  a  lure,  to  gain 
respect  and  confidence,  for  he  had  scarcely  returned  to 
camp,  when  it  was  discovered,  that  he  was  in  treaty, 
and  actually  far  advanced  in  a  plan,  to  deliver  Lee 
and  his  I/cgion  into  the   hands  of  the  enemy.     Severe 
was  the  penalty  which  he  paid.     Sentenced  to  receive 
five  hundred  lashes,  he  had  the  greater  part  of  them 
inflicted,  and  was  drummed  out  of  the  army.     When 
again   expressing   decided  attachment  to    the  Royal 
Standard,  he  returned  to  New-York,  and  was  heard 
of  no  more. 


4^4  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 


CAPTAIN  LAND. 

In  the  5  ear  1781,  while  Lord  Rawdon  was  in  com- 
mand at  Camden,  and  Sumter  lay  on  the  borders  of 
North- Carolina,  the  male  inhabitants  of  the  intervening 
settlements,  who  were  capable  of  bearing  arms,  re- 
sorted to  one  or  the  other,  according  to  the  political 
principles  which  they  cherished.  The  Whigs  in  the 
neighbourhood  of  Rocky  Creek,  forty  miles  above 
Camden,  having,  previously  to  their  joining  Sumter, 
chosen  John  Land,  a  respectable  resident,  as  their 
Captain,  adopted  a  practice  of  occasionally  visiting 
the  settlement,  to  pass  the  night  with  their  families, 
and  return  at  early  morn  to  camp.  On  the  evening  of 
the  2d  of  March,  Captain  Land,  with  seven  of  his 
companions,  arrived  at  his  home,  placed  a  sentinel  at 
the  door,  and  having  for  some  hours  enjoyed  the  so- 
ciety of  his  delighted  family,  retired  to  rest.  The 
period  of  repose  was  but  of  short  duration.  The 
Tories  had,  by  some  unknown  means,  obtained  infor- 
mation of  his  intended  visit,  and  a  party  of  them, 
thirty  in  number,  under  the  command  of  a  Captain 
Daniel  Muse,  arrived  at  midnight  in  the  neighbour- 
hood, and  having  carefully  secured  all  the  old  inen 
and  boys,  likely  to  communicate  intelligence,  pushed 
on  for  Land's.  When  within  about  an  hundred  and 
fifty  yards  of  the  log-house  which  he  inhabited,  they 
were  perceived  by  the  sentinel  at  the  door,  who  having 
hailed,  lired  on  them.  A  momentary  halt  was  made, 
and  a  guard  being  placed  over  their  prisoners,  two  old 
men,  a  youth,  and  two  boys,  a  furious  charge  was 
made  on  the  house.  The  gallant  inmates  received 
them  with  firmness,  kept  up  a  lively  fire  through  the 
oi)cn  spaces  betwixt  the  logs,  and  finally  repulsed 
them,  having  previously  mortally  wounded  Lieutenant 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  425 

Lewis  Yarborou^h,  the  second  in  command.  The 
Tory  party  taking  up  their  line  of  march  through 
woods  and  by-ways,  now  retreated,  and  moved  with 
such  ceU^rity,  as  to  reach  the  British  Head-Quarters  at 
Camden,  by  twelve  o'clock  the  same  day,  carrying  the 
youth  and  two  boys,  one  of  them,  Dr.  John  Mackey, 
now  an  inhabitant  of  Charleston,  as  trophies  of  their 
prowess  and  gallantry.  The  old  man  and  wounded 
officer,  were  left  on  the  way. 

Poor  Land  did  not  long  enjoy  the  triumph  of  this 
little  victory.  Emboldened  by  success,  he  ventured  in 
about  three  weeks  on  another  visit  to  his  family,  ac- 
companied by  betwixt  twenty  and  thirty  of  his  neigh- 
bours. The  party  reached  Rocky  Creek  in  the  eve- 
ning, and  having  agreed  to  assemble  at  the  house  of 
one  Boyd  on  the  following  day,  dispersed  each  indi- 
vidual retiring  to  his  own  family.  But,  alas  !  Trea- 
ehery  was  again  on  foot.  The  enemy  were  apprized 
of  every  movement  ;  and  Lord  Rawdon  having  lost 
much  of  his  confidence  in  his  Tory  auxiliaries,  by  the 
failure  of  their  former  essay,  sent  a  detachment  of  his 
Regular  Cavalry,  united  with  them,  to  cut  off  Land 
and  his  followers.  Their  success,  on  this  occasion, 
was  but  too  complete.  Many  of  the  party  were 
killed  as  they  approached  the  place  of  rendezvous, 
and  among  them  the  unfortunate  Captain  Land,  who 
was  butchered  in  cold  blood,  in  revenge,  no  doubt,  for 
the  death  of  Yarborough,  whom  he  had  killed  in  just 
and  honourable  combat. 


^4 


426  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES, 


JUDGE  BURKE. 

In  sketching  the  character  of  this  worthy  citizen,  1 
neglected  to  mention  an  Anecdote  highly  characteristic 
of  his  singular  turn  of  mind,  which  I  shall  now  briefly 
detail.  A  friend,  with  whom  he  lived  in  habits  of  the 
strictest  intimacy,  once  observing,  that  he  was  tempted 
to  engage  in- a  lavf-suit,  from  the  prospect  of  deriving 
very  great  advantage  from  its  results  ;  the  Judge,  with 
great  frankness,  replied,  "  The  time  you  take  for  de- 
liberation will  not  be  lost,  believe  me,  since  to  insure 
success,  three  things  are  essentially  necessary.  You 
must  have  a  good  cause,  a  good  Lawyer,  and  a  good 
Judge."  "  Then,  my  friend,"  said  the  would-be  liti- 
gator, "  1  will  proceed."  "  Be  not  too  precipitate," 
rejoined  the  Judge,  "  for  I  forgot  to  mention  another 
requisite  to  success — good  luck.'''^ 


EXTRAORDINARY  ESCAPE. 

During  the  siege  of  Charleston  a  shell  from  the 
British  lines,  fell  on  the  tent  occupied  by  two  volun- 
teers, Mr.  Lord  and  Mr.  Basqueen,  who  had,  from 
excessive  fatigue,  retired  to  seek  repose,  and  were  at 
the  moment  buried  in  profound  sleep.  The  explosion 
was  violent.  The  body  of  Mr.  Lord  was  wretchedly 
mangled,  being  torn  literally  to  pieces.  Mr.  Basqueen 
escaped  without  injury ;  for  although  the  hair  of  his 
head  was  singed,  his  sleep  was  not  disturbed;  and 
wlien  dragged  from  the  ruiii^  of  the  tent  appeared 
altogether  free  from  hurt. 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  427 


SERGEANT  POWER. 

It  is  ever  delightful  to  me  to  speak  of  a  soldier  as 
much  distinguished    by   exemplary   good   conduct  as 
Power,  and  therefore  hope  to  be  excused  for  mention- 
ing a  very  singular  occurrence  Vi'hich  took  place  while 
the    Legion  lay  at  Mrs.   Legere's  plantation,  on  the 
Santee.     Mr.  Power,  afterwards  promoted,  but  at  the 
time  a   Sergeant  in  the  cavalry,  being  reduced  to  ex- 
tremity by  disease,  and  despaired  of  by  the  Surgeon  of 
the    Regiment,   earnestly   solicited  that  he  might  be 
allowed  to  eat  a  cucumber,  many  of  which  he  recol- 
lected to  have  seen  in  the  garden,  previously  to  his  con- 
finement.    "  Nature  is  exhausted,"  said  the  Surgeon, 
to  the  friends  who  surrounded  him,  "  he  must  inevita- 
bly die, — indulge   his  longing  therefore, — give  him  a 
cucumber,  but  let  it  be  a  small  one."    The  advice  was 
attended  to — Power  received  it  with  strong  indication 
of  joy,  and  immediately  became  so  tranquil,  that  the 
guard,  who  had  been  greatly  fatigued  by  watching  over 
him,    embraced  the  opportunity,  and  indulged    in    a 
refreshing  sleep.     Waking  up  at  length,  and  finding 
the  most  profound  stillness  in  the  apartment,  he  ap- 
proached   the  bed,   not  doubting  but  that  the  unfor- 
tunate Sergeant  had  expired,  but  his  astonishment  ma.T 
well  be   imagined   to  have  been  excessive,  when  the 
sick  man  exclaimed,  "  I  have  got  it,  I  have  got  it,"  and 
showed  the  remains  of  a  half  eaten  cucumber,  of  an 
immense  size,  that  had  been  left  for  seed,  and  was 
now,   from  age,  as  yellow  as  gold.     He  had  actually 
descended,  while  his  attendant  slept,  into  the  garden, 
and  brought  oft'  the  prize,  that,  seen  from  hi's  window, 
he  declared  had  been  the  object  of  his   constant  and 
nnconquerable  desire.     His  recovery  was  rapid,  and 


428  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 

much  rejoiced  at,  for  his  talents  and  bravery  did  him 
honour;  and  to  the  end  of  the  war  he  not  only  in- 
creased his  own,  but  the  reputation  of  his  Regiment. 


PETITION  OF  THE  LADIES  IN  CHARLESTON,  IN  BEHALF 
OF  THE  UNFORTUNATE  COL.  ISAAC  HAYNE. 

In  noticing  the  particulars  of  the  capture,  unmerited 
sufferings,  and  execution  of  this  martyr  to  the  cause  of 
freedom,  I  should  have  recorded  the  i)etition  presented, 
in  his  behalf,  by  the  ladies  of  Charleston.  The  sen- 
tence that  threatened  his  life,  by  all  deemed  harsh,  and 
by  many  considered  as  having  a  greater  tendency  to 
excite  revolt  than  to  check  it,  called  forth  the  most 
tender  and  compassionate  feelings  of  the  heart,  and 
caused  such  general  sympathy,  that  many  even  of  the 
most  decided  enemies  of  the  principles  he  supported, 
solicited  its  mitigation,  or  rather  that  it  should  be 
altogether  annulled.  Many  of  the  Tory  as  well  as 
Whig  Ladies  signed  the  petition  of  which  I  shall  now 
give  a  few  extracts.  Had  Lord  Rawdon  remembered 
that 

"  Not  tlie  depnted  sword, 
"  The  Marshal's  truncheon,  nor  the  Judge's  robe, 
"  Become  him  with  one  half  so  good  a  grace 
"  As  mercy  does," 

humanity  had  triumphed,  and  they  would  not  have 
tendered  their  prayers  in  vain. 

to  lord  rawdon,  combiander  in  chief  of  the  british  forces  in 
south-carolina,  and  colonel  balfour,  commandant  at 
charleston, 

"  My  Lord  and  Sir, 

"  We  should  have  reason  to  reproach  ourselves,  for  having 
omitted  a  proper  occasion  of  manifesting  the  tenderness  peculiarly 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  429 

characteristic  of  our  sex,  if  we  did  not  profess  ourselves  deeply  inter 
rested  and  afiected  by  the  imminent  and  shocking  doom  of  the  most 
unfortuhate  Mr.  Hayne  ;  and  if  we  did  not  intreat  you,  in  the  most 
earnest  manner  graciously  to  avert,  prolong,  or  mitigate  it.  We  pre-  - 
sume  to  make  this  intercession  for  him,  from  the  knowledge  of  your 
dispositions,  as  well  as  from  the  reflection,  that  humanity  is*  rarely 
separated  from  courage  ;  and  that  the  gallant  soldier  feels  as  much 
reluctance,  to  cause  by  deliberate  decrees,  the  infliction  of  death  on 
men  in  cold  blood,  as  he  does  ardour  in  the  day  of  battle,  and  heat 
of  action,  to  make  the  enemies  of  his  country  perish  by  the  sword. 
He  may  rejoice  to  see  his  laurels  sprinkled  with  the  blood  of  armed 
and  resisting  adversaries  ;  but  regret  to  see  them  wet  with  the  tear's 
of  unhappy  orphans,  mourning  the  loss  of  a  tender,  amiable,  and 
Worthy  parent,  executed  like  a  vile  and  infamous  felon.  To  the 
praises  of  your  military  virtues  and  prowess,  we  trust  you  will  give 
the  Ladies  occasion  to  add  the  praises  of  your  milder  and  softer  vir- 
tues, by  furnishing  them  with  a  striking  proof  of  your  clemency  in 
the  present  instance.  To  that  clemency,  to  our  prayers,  and  to  his 
merits  in  other  respects,  let  the  unhappy  object  of  our  petition  owe? 
what  you  might  not  think  him  entitled  to,  if  policy  were  not  out- 
weighed in  his  behalf.  To  any  other  men  in  power  than  such  as 
we  conceive  you  both  to  be,  we  should  employ  on  the  occasion,  more 
ingenuity  and  art,  to  dress  up  and  enforce  the  many  pathetic  and 
favourable  circumstances  attending  his  case,  in  order  to  move  your 
passions  and  engage  your  favour  ;  but,  we  think  tliis  will  be  need- 
less, as  obviated  by  your  spontaneous  feeling,  humanity,  and  liberal 
reasoning.  Nor  shall  we  dwell  on  his  most  excellent  character,  the 
outrages  and  excesses  prevented  by  him  ;  nor  lay  any  stress  on  the 
most  grievous  shock  his  numerous  and  respectable  connexions  must 
sustain  by  his  death,  aggravated  by  the  mode  of  it  ;  nor  shall  we  do 
more  than  remind  you,  of  the  complicated  distress  and  sufferings  that 
must  befal  his  young  and  promising  children,  to  whom  death  would 
be  preferable  to  the  state  of  the  orphanage  they  will  be  left  in. 
"  We  are,  my  Lord  and  Sir, 

"  With  all  respect,  your  very  anxious  petitioners 
"  And  humble  servants. 


430  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 


DUEL  BETWEEN   GENERAL  CADWALLADER  AND  GENERAL 

CONWAY. 

The  particulars  of  this  duel,  orginatins  in  the  ho- 
nourable feelings  of  General  Cadwallarler,  indignant 
at  the  attempt  of  his  adversary  to  injure  the  reputation 
of  the  Commander  in  Chief,  by  representing  him  as 
unqualified  for  the  exalted  station  which  he  held,  ap- 
pears worthy  of  record.  Nor  ought  the  coolness 
observed  on  the  occasion  by  the  parties,  to  be  forgotten, 
as  it  evinces  very  strongly,  that  although  imperious  cir- 
cumstances may  compel  men  of  nice  feeling  to  meet, 
that  the  dictates  of  honour  may  be  satisfied  without  the 
smallest  deviation  from  the  most  rigid  rules  of  polite- 
ness. When  arrived  at  the  appointed  rendezvous,  Gen- 
eral Cadwallader,  accompanied  by  General  Dickenson 
of  Pennsylvania,  General  Conway  by  Colonel  Morgan 
of  Princeton,  it  was  agreed  upon  by  the  seconds,  that 
on  the  word  being  given,  the  principals  might  fire  in 
their  own  time,  and  at  discretion,  either  by  an  off- 
hand shot,  or  by  taking  a  deliberate  aim.  The  parties 
having  declared  themselves  ready,  the  word  was  given 
to  proceed.  General  Conway  immediately  raised  his 
pistol,  and  fired  with  great  composure,  but  without 
effect.  General  Cadwallader  was  about  to  do  so, 
when  a  sudden  gust  of  wind  occurring,  he  kept  his 
pistol  down  and  remained  tranquil.  "  Why  do  you 
iiob  fire,  General  Cadwallader  ?"  exclaimed  Conway. 
"  Because,"  replied  General  Cadwallader,  "  we  came 
not  here  to  trifle.  Let  the  gale  pass,  and  I  shall  act 
my  part."  "  You  shall  have  a  fair  chance  of  perform- 
ing it  well,"  rejoined  Conway,  and  immediately  pre- 
sented a  full  front.  General  Cadwallader  fired,  and 
his  ball  entering  the  mouth  of  his  antagonist,  he  fell 
directly  forward  on  his  face.     Colonel  Morgan  run- 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  431 

ning  to  his  assistance,  found  the  blood  spouting  from 
behind  his  neck,  and  lifting  up  the  club  of  his  hair, 
saw  the  ball  drop  from  it.  It  had  passed  through  his 
head  greatly  to  the  derangement  of  his  tongue  and 
teeth,  but  did  not  inflict  a  mortal  wound.  As  soon  as 
the  blood  was  sufficiently  washed  away  to  allow  him 
to  speak,  General  Conway,  turning  to  his  opponent, 
said  good  humoured ly,  "  You  fire,  General,  with 
much  deliberation,  and  certainly  with  a  great  deal  of 
effect."  The  calls  of  honour  satisfied,  all  animosity 
subsided,  and  they  parted  free  from  all  resentment. 


EXPULSION  OF  CONGRESS  FROM  PHILADELPHIA. 

Some  months  subsequent  to  the  signing  of  the  pre- 
liminary articles  of  Peace,  General  Greene,  in  order 
to  spare  the  Pennsylvanians  the  fatigues  of  a  tedious 
march,  and  to  save  expense  to  the  United  States,  en- 
gaged a  letter  of  marque  belonging  to  Rhode-Island, 
to  transport  two  companies  of  that  line  to  Philadel- 
phia. A  change  of  climate  being  considered  as  neces- 
sary to  the  re-establishment  of  my  health,  which  was, 
at  that  period,  much  impaired,  I  obtained  permission  to 
embark  with  them,  promising  to  await  the  General's 
arrival  in  that  city,  where  he  expected  to  have  much 
business  to  transact  with  Congress.  We  arrived  at  a 
most  important  moment.  As  our  troops  disembarked, 
a  considerable  number  of  mutineers  of  their  own  line, 
from  Lancaster,  surrounded  the  Hall  of  Congress, 
demanding  the  prompt  settlement  of  their  accounts, 
and  threatening  vengeance  in  case  of  refusal,  or  even 
an  attempt  to  pj-ocrastinate  the  consideration  of  their 
claims.    It  was  my  misfortune  to  witness  this  outrage  ; 


432  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 

and  to  find,  that  too  many  of  the  men,  who  had  re- 
turned with  honour  from  the  South,  forsook  their 
officers  to  join  the  disaffected,  and  support  their  un- 
warrantable proceedings.  Violence  was  now  increased 
to  so  high  a  pitch,  that  General  Hamilton,  at  the  time 
a  member  of  the  National  Legislature,  having  fruit- 
lessly endeavoured,  by  expostulation,  to  subdue  the 
wrath  of  the  revolters,  and  moderate  the  extravagance 
of  their  demands,  joined  his  colleagues  in  the  Hall  of 
their  deliberations,  and  calmly  advised  them  "  to  think 
of  eternity,  since  he  confidently  believed,  that  within  the 
space  of  an  hour,  not  an  individual  of  their  body  would 
be  left  alive."  "  The  supineness  of  the  authorities  of  the 
State,  under  these  circumstances,  was  the  cause  of  gene- 
ral astonishment.  It  was  said,  that  General  Read,  and 
many  distinguished  military  characters,  indignant  at 
the  treatment  offered  to  the  National  Representatives, 
strongly  urged  the  calling  out  of  the  militia,  volun- 
teering their  services,  and  pledging  themselves,  by  a 
decisive  blow,  to  restore  tranquillity.  Governor  Dick- 
enson, however,  was  determined  to  avoid  violent  mea- 
sures ;  and  as  danger  was  inseparable  from  delay, 
Congress,  during  the  night,  left  the  city  for  Princeton. 
The  mutineers,  with  increasing  insolence,  now  threa- 
tened to  take  the  law  into  their  own  hands,  and  to 
satisfy  their  claims  from  the  spoils  of  the  Bank.  The 
menace  at  once  electrified  every  bosom ;  and  it  ap- 
peared every  man's  concern,  to  render  the  threat  abor- 
tive. The  whole  city  were  instantaneously  in  arms ; 
and  in  a  few  hours,  the  insurgents  were  either  dis- 
persed or  prisoners.  To  their  honour  it  should  be 
known,  that  Major  James  Hamilton  of  the  1st  Penn- 
sylvania Regiment,  recently  arrived  from  the  army  of 
General  Greene,  and  Captain  Boud,  who  commanded 
the  troops  from  the  south,  immediately  landed,  used 
every  exertion  to  check  these  disgraceful  proceedings. 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  433 

till  frenzy  increased  to  such  a  heigth,  that  to  save 
them  from  assassination,  their  friends  compelled  them 
to  retire. 


LIEUTENANT  COLONEL  BUTLER, 

OF  morgan's  rifle  regiment. 

As  some  months  would  elapse  before  General 
Greene  could  reach  Philadelphia,  I  gladly  embraced 
the  opportunity  of  visiting  the  interior  country ;  and 
at  Lancaster,  considered  myself  particularly  fortunate 
in  forming  an  acquaintance  with  Lieutenant  Colonel 
Butler,  at  that  period  the  Commandant  of  the  post. 
His  reputation  as  a  military  character,  had  already 
won  my  admiration  ;  his  frankness,  polite  attentions, 
and  generous  hospitality,  confirmed  every  preposses- 
sion in  his  favour. 

It  was  the  cause  of  great  astonishment,  to  hear  a 
gentleman,  the  suavity  of  whose  manners  would  have 
graced  a  Court,  declare,  "  That  to  the  simplicity  of  the 
savage  life,  he  gave  a  decided  preference  over  the 
modes  of  polished  society ;  and  that  he  impatiently 
waited  the  definitive  signing  of  a  Peace  with  Britain, 
to  repair  to  the  wilderness,  and  resume  habits  pecu- 
liarly suited  to  his  disposition."  "  The  ease  and  indo- 
lence," he  would  say,  "  which  characterized  Indian 
manners,  when  plenty  abounded,  the  activity  and  enter- 
prise resorted  to,  to  procure  subsistence,  and  obtain 
comforts  in  times  of  necessity,, had  to  him  great  fasci- 
nations ;  and  that,  compared  with  them,  the  habits  and 
uniform  indulgences  of  polished  society,  seemed 
irksome  and  insupportable." 

55 


434  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 

I  have  nover  been  informed,  whether  or  not  he  car- 
ried his  schemes  into  execution  ;  though  I  rather 
suppose  that  he  did  not,  for  he  married  a  young  wife, 
and  in  the  war  against  the  Western  Indians,  whicii 
broke  out  very  shortly  after  the  conclusion  of  that  of 
the  Revolution,  we  find  him  in  arms,  an  active  Partisan, 
and  second  in  command  at  the  disastrous  defeat  of  St. 
Chiir.  It  was  on  tiiis  occasion,  that  the  intrepid  But- 
ler closed  his  military  career  in  death — his  coolness 
preserved,  and  courage  remaining  unshaken,  till  the  last 
moment  of  existence.  While  enabled  to  keep  the 
field,  his  exertions  were  truly  heroic.  He  repeatedly 
led  his  men  to  the  charge,  and  with  slaughter  drove 
the  enemy  before  him  ;  but,  being  at  length  compelled 
to  retire  to  his  tent,  from  the  number  and  severity  of 
his  wounds,  he  was  receiving  surgical  aid,  when  a 
ferocious  warrior  rushing  into  his  presence,  gave  him 
a  mortal  blow  with  iiis  tomahawk.  But  even  then  the 
gallant  soldier  died  not  unrevenged.  He  had  antici- 
pated this  catastroi)!ie,  and  discharging  a  pistol  which 
he  held  in  his  hand,  lodged  its  contents  into  the  breast 
of  his  enemy,  who  uttering  a  hideous  yell,  fell  by  his 
side  and  expired  ! 


COMMODORES  AFFLECK  AND  SWEENEY. 

While  wailing  the  arrival  of  General  Greene  at 
Philadelphia,  1  was  introduced  to  the  British  Com- 
modores Affleck  and  Sweeney,  by  Captain  Armstrong 
of  the  Legion,  who  had  been  treated  by  the  latter, 
while  a  prisoner  in  Charleston,  with  marked  attention ; 
and  gladly  united  with  him,  in  using  every  exertion  to 
render  their  visit  interesting  and  agreeable  to  them. 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  435 

We  accompanied  them,  in  consequence  of  a  polite 
invitation  from  Captain  Barry,  on  a  visit  to  the  Al- 
liance frigate  ;  and  on  returning  towards  the  shore, 
received  a  complimentary  salute,  for  which  they  ex- 
pressed great  thankfulness. 

Visiting  Peale's  Gallery  of  Portraits,  where  the  like- 
nesses of  the  officers  who  had  most  distinguished 
themselves  by  their  Revolutionary  services,  were  pre- 
served, I  could  not  but  observe,  that  the  attention  of 
Sir  Edmond  Affleck  was  altogether  engrossed  by  one 
head,  which  he  appeared  to  regard  with  |)ecu]iar  satis- 
faction ;  and  was  not  a  little  surprised  to  hear  him  say, 
"  I  know  not  who  this  portrait  is  intended  to  repre- 
sent ;  but,  however  great  the  merits  of  others  may  be, 
I  see  no  expression  of  countenance  in  the  collection, 
that  gives  to  me  so  perfect  an  idea  of  bold  and  in- 
flexible resolution."  His  correct  discernment  of  cha- 
racter, in  this  instance,  is  remarkable ;  and  it  is  a 
singular  circumstance,  that  it  was  the  only  likeness  of 
a  Naval  Hero  m  the  Gallery.  It  was,  in  fact,  the  por- 
trait, and  an  admirable  likeness,  of  Paul  Jones. 


PtECEPTION  OF  GENERAL  GREENE 

AT  PHILADELPHIA. 

Nothing  could  be  more  flattering  to  a  man  ambitious 
to  merit  the  esteem  of  his  fellow  citizens,  than  the 
reception  given  to  General  Greene  by  the  inhabitants 
of  Philadelphia.  As  soon  as  his  approach  to  the  city 
was  announced,  all  the  military  officers  of  rank,  and 
many  of  the  most  distinguished  patriots  and  citizens 
in  the  Civil  Department,  went  forward  to  meet  him- 
He  was  conducted  to  his  quarters  through  crowded 


436  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 

streets,  where  every  window  was  thronged  with  beauty, 
and  welcomed  by  looks  of  grateful  admiration,  and  a 
a  respectful  silence,  more  flattering  by  far  than  the 
applauses  of  noisy  vociferation.  These,  however,  were 
not  altogether  withheld ;  and  when  (as  he  entered  the 
Hotel)  I  heard  the  shout  of  "  honour  to  the  victor  of 
the  South — long  life  to  Greene,"  I  thought  his  triumph 
complete. 

There  was  no  attention  that  merit  could  call 
for,  or  gratitude  bestow,  which  was  not  lavished  on 
him  for  the  short  period  of  his  stay  in  the  city.  But 
Congress  were  within  a  short  distance,  and  anxious  to 
pay  his  respects,  and  to  answer  any  inquiries  that  might 
be  made  relative  to  the  conduct  and  final  dismissal  of 
the  Southern  Army,  General  Greene  continued  his 
route  to  Princeton. 


MEETING    WITH    THE    COMMANDER    IN    CHIEF. 

At  Colonel  Coxe's,  at  Trenton,  I  was  gratified  by 
witnessing  an  interview  which  I  must  ever  remember 
with  delight.  On  entering  the  house,  General  Greene 
had  the  happiness  to  find  that  the  Commander  in  Chief, 
who  had  escorted  Mrs.  Washington  so  far  on  her  way 
to  Virginia,  had  arrived  but  a  few  minutes  before  him. 
It  would  be  altogether  impossible  for  me,  to  give  evert 
a  faint  idea  of  the  joy  that  animated  the  intelligent 
countenances  of  these  great  men,  so  sincerely  attached, 
and  so  unexpectedly  brought  together.  The  one  intel- 
ligibly spoke  the  grateful  feelings  of  an  honourable 
man  for  the  friendship  which  had  advanced  him  to 
command,  the  other  the  admiration  of  the  valour  and 
pradential  conduct  which  had  so  fully  justified  his 


i^IISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  437 

recommondation.  In  every  look,  in  every  word,  the 
strongest  indications  of  reciprocal  and  affectionate 
regard  was  manifested;  and  I  feel  conviction  thafe 
neither  the  one  or  the  other  had  ever  experienced  sen- 
sations of  more  exalted  delights 


,THE  EFFECT  OF  PEACE  ON  THE  SOLDIERS'  CONSE- 
QUENCE IN    SOCIETY. 

I  AM  now  about  to  relate  an  Anecdote,  which,  how- 
ever lightly  it  may  be  thought  of  at  this  time,  plainly 
shows  that  disrespect  and  ingratitude  have  too  often 
been  manifested  towards  military  men,  when  their  ser- 
vices were  no  longer  in  requisition. 

General  Washington  and  General  Greene,  on  the 
day  following  their  fortunate  meeting,  set  out  for 
Princeton.  On  their  arrival  there,  the  Secretary  of  the 
President  of  Congress  presented  himself,  with  a  re- 
quest from  Mr.  Boudinot,  who  held  that  honourable 
station,  that  all  ceremony  should  be  waved,  and  that 
the  Generals,  with  the  gentlemen  of  their  respective 
families,  would  partake  of  an  entertainment  then  serv- 
ing up.  The  invitation  being  accepted,  the  whole 
party  repaired  to  the  Presidential  house.  Compliments 
passed,  and  dinner  announced.  The  President  placing 
himself  between  the  Generals,  led  the  way  to  the  eat- 
ing room.     An  individual,  a  Mr.  H ,  w  ho  certainly 

possessed  much  more  of  the  affectation  than  reality  of 
politeness,  now  took  it  upon  himself  to  do  the  honours 
of  the  house,  and  turning  to  one  of  the  company,  said, 

*'  Mr.  R ,  Member  of  Congress,  you  are  next  the 

door,  pray  go  forward.  Mr.  Z ,  Member  of  Con- 
gress, 'tis  your  turn — go  forward,  if  you  please." — 
Thus  he  went  on,  till  all  the  gentlemen  in  the  Civil 


i5,38  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 

Department  had  gone  forward  ;  and  then  (being  a 
Member  of  Congress  himself)  quitted  the  room,  leav- 
ing General  Kosciusko,  Colonel  Maitland,  Major  Ed- 
wards, the  Adjutant  General  of  the  Southern  Army, 
and  the  Aids-de-Camp  of  General  Greene,  to  find  their 
own  way  to  the  table.  Such  conduct  is  no  novelty. 
'Soldiers,  as  I  have  already  stated,  are  estimated  accord- 
ing to  their  immediate  utility.  Let  their  exertions  be 
wanted,  and  they  are  sure  to  command  universal  wtiew- 
tion.  The  danger  past,  they  are  too  frequently  for- 
gotten. 

I  have  a  talc  in  point  to  show,  that  the  same  dispo- 
sition prevailed  in  former  times,  as  at  the  period  I 
speak  of. 

An  English  officer  passing  through  the  County  of 
York,  during  the  Rebellion  which  broke  out  in  Scot- 
land in  the  year  1745,  was  received  and  treated  with 
peculiar  kindness  by  a  Quaker,  who,  at  the  moment  of 
bis  departure,  said  to  him,  "  Go  forward,  friend,  smite 
thy  opponents,  crush  rebellion  ;  and  on  thy  return,  re- 
member to  tarry  with  him,  who  regards  thee  as  one  of 
the  Pillars  of  the  Nation."  The  hopes  of  the  Pre- 
tender, extinguished  by  the  decisive  victory  of  Co- 
lodden,  the  Englishman  ordered  to  the  South,  and 
passing  near  the  habitation  of  his  kind  entertainer,  did 
not  forget  the  cordiality  with  which  he  had  been 
pressed,  to  repeat  his  visit,  and  repaired  to  the  house 
of  the  Quaker ;  but,  with  a  look  that  gave  little  indi- 
cation of  hospitality,  or  even  acknowledgment  of  for- 
mer acquaintance,  the  starch  hypocrite. exclaimed — 
*'  Retire,  friend,  I  know  thee  not."  "  Not  know  me," 
said  the  officer.  '*  Why  when  last  we  parted,  you  not 
only  pressed  me  to  return  to  you  when  the  Rebellion 
should  be  extinguished,  but  assured  me,  moreover,  that 
you  regarded  me  as  one  of  the  Pillars  of  the  Nation." 
"  Did  1  so  ?"  rejoined  the  Quaker  ;  "  tiien,  trust  me, 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  439 

friend,  1  must  have  meant  one  of  the  CatterpiUars.^' 
My  tale  needs  no  comment. 


DISTINGUISHED  CHARACTERS. 

Writing  with  professed  intention  to  excite  in  the 
bosoms  of  my  young  countrymen,  the  ambition  to 
emulate  their  ancestors,  in  the  display  of  patriotic 
virtue,  I  cannot  be  considered  incorrect  while  recalling 
to  remembrance  the  names  of  the  heroes  and  states- 
men pre-eminenihj  distinguished,  if  I,  at  the  same  time, 
bring  into  view  the  exemplary  good  conduct  of  other 
citizens,  who,  in  an  humbler  sphere  of  usefulness,  by 
the  steadiness  of  their  principles,  and  unremitted  exer- 
tions, contributed  to  the  accomplishment  of  our  Inde- 
pendency, and  the  establishment  of  that  happy  govern- 
ment which  is  at  once  the  envy  and  admiration  of  the 
world. 

To  a  stranger  arriving  in  our  State,  and  naturally 
inquiring,  "  which  are  the  families,  who,  in  the  day  of 
trial,  rendered  the  most  essential  services'  to  their  coun- 
try ?"  would  it  not  be  criminal  to  say,  "  the  current  of 
subsequent  events  have  consigned  them  to  oblivion  !" 
Would  it  not  appear  the  perfection  of  injustice  and  in- 
gratitude? I  should  certainly  prouounce  it  such;  and 
with  sensations  of  far  greater  delight  and  exalted  en- 
thusiasm, proclaim, — "When  the  power  of  Britain  was 
predominant  in  the  land,  when  the  current  of  their 
successes  had  swept  away  almost  every  barrier  to  the 
tyranny  which  the  commanders  of  her  armies  ai)peared 
determined  to  impose,  when  hope  was  lost  to  the  timid 
and  the  wavering,  and  even  to  the  most  sanguine  the 
prospect  of  success  but  glimmered  at  a  distance,  there 
were  not  wanting  exalted  spirits,  in  whose  bosoms 
despondency  could  find  no  place, — who  never  despaired 


440  MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 

of  the  ultimate  triumphs  of  the  cause  of  liberty  and 
their  country."  The  Barawells,  Bees,  Butlers,  Hey- 
wards,  Hugers,  Pinckneys,  Richardsons,  Rutledges, 
Shubricks  and  Taylors,  were  distinguished  by  conduct 
uniformly  correct.  Nor  less  so  the  Warleys,  who  gave 
four  sons  to  the  Continental  service;  the  Alstons, 
Canteys,  Cattells,  Edwards',  Elliotts,  Gibbes',  Gray- 
sons,  Hamptons,  Hardings,  Holmes',  James',  Legares, 
Postells,  Prioleaus,  De  Saussures,  Simons',  Starks, 
Talbirds,  Vanderhorsts,  Witherspoons,  and  Waties', 
who  furnished  as  many  zealous  supporters  of  Revolu- 
tionary principles,  as  there  were  individuals  among 
them  capable  of  bearing  arms,  or  qualified  to  guide 
the  councils  of  the  nation.  That  many  others  are 
equally  entitled  to  be  mentioned  with  honourable  dis- 
tinction, is  most  certain;  I  have  merely  enumerated 
such  as  most  forcibly  recur  to  memory,  and  where  an 
omission  exists,  it  is  certainly  not  from  intention,  as  it 
is  my  most  ardent  wish  to  give  the  praise  of  patriotic 
firmness  to  all  who  are  deserving  of  it.  There  arc 
many  individuals  also,  who  should  be  named  with 
marked  respect.  • 

There  was  not  in  the  Continental  service,  an  officer 
who  performed  every  duty  with  greater  alacrity  and 
exactitude,  than  Major  Simeon  Theus.  At  the  com- 
mencement of  the  war,  when  the  funds  of  the  Treasury 
of  the  State  were  at  a  low  ebb,  and  the  example  of 
patriotic  citizens  was  necessary  to  give  them  support 
and  stability,  he  sold  his  patrimonial  estate,  and  lent 
the  proceeds  to  the  government.  When  the  war  was 
concluded,  appointed  to  settle  all  accounts  between  the 
State  and  the  government  of  the  United  States,  he  per- 
formed the  duty  so  much  to  the  satisfaction  of  the 
public,  that  the  Legislature  made  him  an  offer  of  an 
additional  compensation  of  one  thousand  dollars,  but 
fee  at  once  refused  to  accept  it,  declaring,  that  he  had 


MISCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES.  441 

set  what  he  considered  a  fair  price  on  his  time  and  his 
labour,  and  if  it  was  his  happiness  to  have  given  satis- 
faction, he  was  more  than  paid. 

I  would  mention,  with  particular  commendation, 
both  Major  and  Captain  Postell.  Detached  by  Gene- 
ral Marion  across  the  Santee,  in  the  year  1781,  with 
the  command  of  a  small  number  of  mounted  militia, 
they  first  destroyed  a  very  considerable  quantity  of 
valuable  stores  at  Manigault's  Ferry,  and  in  the 
vicinity,  and  then  attacking  the  British  post  at  Monk's 
Corner,  destroyed  fourteen  wagons  loaded  with  sol- 
diers' clothing  and  baggage,  besides  other  articles  of 
value,  and  made  prisoners  of  forty  regulars,  effecting 
the  whole  service  without  the  loss  of  a  man. 

On  the  20th  of  August,  1780,  immediately  subse- 
quent to  the  disastrous  battle  of  Camden,  information 
being  received  by  General  Marion,  that  a  guard,  with  a 
part  of  the  prisoners  taken  by  Lord  Cornwallis,  were 
on  the  road  in  their  way  to  Charleston,  he  detached 
Colonel  Hugh  Horry,  with  sixteen  men,  with  orders  to 
attack  the  escort,  and  attempt  the  deliverance  of  the 
captives.  This  was  promptly  and  effectually  done  by 
the  gallant  Colonel.  Twenty-two  British  regulars,  a 
Captain  and  subaltern  of  their  Tory  adherents,  were 
taken,  and  one  hundred  and  fifty  soldiers  of  the  Con- 
tinental Line  of  Maryland,  liberated,  with  the  loss  of 
one  man  only,  and  an  officer  wounded. 

Cornet  James  Simons,  of  Washington's,  detached 
with  eleven  regular  cavalry,  and  twenty-five  mounted 
militia,  drove  General  Cunningham,  who  was  at  the 
head  of  one  hundred  and  fifty  Tories,  from  a  strong 
})osition  near  Ninety-Six,  where  there  was  a  consider- 
able depot  of  forage,  provision,  and  stores,  for  the  use 
of  the  British  army,  with  much  plundered  property, 


44^  MILCELLANEOUS  ANECDOTES. 

the  reward  of  their  own  toils;  and  having  destroyed 
the  whole,  rejoined  his  Regiment  without  loss.  This 
gallant  soldier,  at  the  battle  of  Eiitaw,  gained  new 
honours  by  his  intrepid  exertions,  but  in  the  contest  for 
victory  was  twice  severely  wounded. 

The  history  of  Marion's  Campaigns,  recently  pub- 
lished by  the  honourable  Judge  James,  who  served 
under  his  banners,  renders  it  altogether  unnecessary 
to  speak  of  many  gallant  achievements  that  he  has  fully 
detailed.  It  is  grateful  to  me,  however,  to  express  my 
admiration  of  the  partial  endurance  of  misfortunes,  of 
privations  before  unheard  of,  and  of  gallantry  not  to 
be  surpassed,  exhibited  by  the  Colonels  Hugh  and 
Peter  Horry,  Colonel  Mavham,  the  Majors  Conyers 
and  James,  the  Captains  M'Cauley,  Cooper,  M'Cottry, 
James,  Gavin  Witherspoon,  and  many  others. 

The  late  General  Fishburn,  wounded  when  in  the 
Continental  service  at  Stono,  commanded,  with  dis- 
tinction, at  a  subsequent  period,  a  corps  of  horse,  and 
throughout  the  entire  war  was  esteemed  for  ardent  and 
unshaken  patriotism.  Governor  Paul  Hamilton  ren- 
dered a  most  essential  service  to  his  country  by  giving, 
in  early  youth,  a  laudable  example  of  firmness,  that 
neither  danger  nor  difficulty  could  ever  subdue.  In 
short,  in  every  division  of  the  State,  individuals  ac- 
quired celebrity,  and  achievements  were  accomplished 
highly  worthy  to  be  recorded,  as  increasing  the  glory  of 
the  nation.  Many  I  fear  are  already  lost,  and  still  more 
likely  to  rest  in  perpetual  oblivion.  My  effort  to 
obtain  information,  particularly  from  the  interior  coun- 
try, has  not  met  with  the  success  that  I  had  anticipated. 
It  is  true,  the  period  for  receiving  it  has  been  very 
limited,  for  previously  to  the  month  of  June  last,  I  had 
not  vi'ritten  a  line.  Great  is  my  hope,  that  better  for- 
tune may  crown  the  exertions  of  some  future  writer. 


Miscellaneous  anecdotes.  443 

and  enable  him  to  show,  that,  in  as  high  a  degree  as 
compatible  with  the  attainments  of  human  nature,  the 
characteristic  features  of  the  sons  of  Carolina  have  been 
strongly  marked  by  perseverance,  and  intrepid  resolu- 
tion to  obtain  success,  moderation  and  generous  feel- 
ing in  the  use  of  it. 


,itfv^  i>h}<^^J^i;' 


CONCLUSION. 


In  detailing  the  Anecdotrs  contained  in  the  vohime 
which  I  now  offer  to  the  Public,  I  have  repeatedly, 
with  pride  and  exultation  asserted,  that  in  the  display 
of  generous  feeling  towards  the  enemy  whom  they  had 
subdued,  the  Soldiers  of  America  had  distinguished 
claims  to  applause.  My  opinions  are  not  speculative, 
but  supported  by  proofs  incontrovertible.  I  trust,  that 
with  justice  it  can  never  be  said  of  me,  that  blinded 
by  party  zeal,  I  considered  the  palm  of  excellence  ex- 
clusively possessed  by  the  advocates  of  Revolutionary 
principles.  I  solemnly  declare,  that  making  sincerity 
and  the  pure  dictates  of  conscience  the  test  of  opinion, 
I  readily  grant,  that  proper  credit  is  to  be  allowed  to 
the  supporters  of  opposite  tenets,  steadily  adhering  to 
them. 

I  have,  in  my  encomiums,  done  no  more  than  justice 
to  the  forbearance  and  merciful  dis[)osition  of  the 
military  ;  but,  I  am  far  from  thinking,  that  they  alone 
are  entitled  to  applause  ;  and  consider  it  a  tribute  to 
justice  to  state,  that  in  the  Councils  of  the  Nation, 
there  was  a  magnanimity  displayed,  that  to  our  Legis- 
lators give  a  decided  claim  to  equal  honours. 

Before  I  more  particularly  speak  my  own  senti- 
ments, I  will  present  an  extract  from  the  Oration  of 
Mr.  Benjamin  Elliott,  pronounced  before  the  '76  Asso- 
ciation on  the  4th  of  March,  1813,  which  strikingly 
evinces,  that  however  highly  excited  the  resentments 


CONCLUSION.  445 

of  the  nation,  its  magnanimity  was  still  superior  to 
them  : 

"  The  passions  and  the  ignorance  of  the  people,  it 
is  thought,  \vdve  fated  a  short  existence  to  our  freedom. 
This  opinion  is  not  based  on  the  American  character. 
During  our  Revolutionary  calamities,  when  hope  was 
beat  down,  and  injuries  were  most  unkind,  a  heartless 
gang  of  domestic  felons,  under  the  appellation  of 
Tories,  rose  against  the  people.  There  was  no  atro- 
city they  did  not  perpetrate — no  aggravation  they  did 
not  add  to  distress.  Did  you  see  the  cinders  of  the 
poor  man's  dwelling  ?  Who  destroyed  it  ?  The 
Tory  !  Was  the  rich  man  pillaged  because  he  prefer- 
red his  country  to  his  wealth  ?  Who  stole  his  pro- 
perty ?  The  Tory  !  Was  the  stern  Patriot  insulted  ? 
Who  inflicted  the  indignity  ?  The  Tpry !  Yet,  after 
the  success  of  Liberty,  it  was  advised,  that  wrongs 
should  be  forgiven,  and  this  justly  execrated  enemy 
viewed  as  brethren.  The  American  people  acquiesced, 
and  have  enforced  every  provision  of  that  Godlike 
amnesty.  The  Patriot  does  not  enjoy  one  benefit  from 
the  Revolution,  which  has  not  been  extended  to  the 
Tory.  Fact,  therefore,  and  not  speculation,  has  de- 
termined, that  there  is  no  animosity,  however  obsti- 
nate, no  passion,  however  powerful,  which  the  Ame- 
rican people  will  not  vanquish,  when  demanded  by 
their  country's  good." 

That  t!ie  provocation  to  severity  was  great,  cannot 
be  denied.  That  it  was  sensibly  felt  by  those  who 
writhed  under  the  afflictions  of  unmerited  persecution, 
is  equally  true.  The  decrees  of  the  Jacksonborough 
Assembly,  unequivocally  proclaiiiKjd  the  irritation 
arising  from  it.  But,  as  a  Carolinian,  I  am  proud  to 
say,  that  with  returning  Peace,  moderation  and  lenity 
regained  their  wonted  influence.  Congress  recom- 
mended the  removal  of  the  punishments  denounced 
against  political  offenders :  and  the  Legislatures  of  the 


44G  COiNCLUSION. 

different  States,  seconded  their  wishes  by  a  prompt 
and  generous  acquisoence  with  them. 

In  South-Carolina,  scarcely  a  trace  was  left  of  the 
penalties  originally  imposed  on  the  disaffected.  And 
although  the  State  laboured  under  great  difficulties, 
from  an  immense  load  of  debt  contracted  during  the 
war,  according  to  Dr.  Ramsay,  whose  statements  were 
ever  strictly  correct,  "  confiscated  property  in  actual 
possession  of  the  Commissioners,  to  the  amount  ot" 
nearly  five  hundred  thousand  pounds  sterling,"  was 
generously  restored. 

Long  since  has  every  recollection  of  the  pride  and 
insolence  betrayed  in  the  hour  of  success,  and  the 
injuries  heaped  upon  them  by  their  oppressors,  been 
extinguished  in  the  Patriot's  bosom  ;  and  every  asperity 
softened  down  by  the  beneficent  spirit  of  conciliation. 
The  feuds  of  Whig  and  Tory  have  been  completely 
extinguished.  Pardon  has  been  extended  even  to  the 
most  obnoxious.  They  have  not  only  been  tolerated, 
but  treated  with  a  kindness  that  could  not  have  been 
looked  for ;  and  had  every  disqualification  removed 
that  might  impede  their  progress,  aspiring  to  the  at- 
tainment of  confidence  and  esteem. 

"  Silent  oblivion,  joyed  to  wipe  away 
"  The  record  of  their  madness  and  their  crimes  ; 
"  And  in  the  stead  of  wrathful  vengeance,  claiming: 
■'•  The  penalties  her  due,  came  reconciling  Mercy." 


F  I  iV  I  S, 


ERRATA. 


Page  27,  line  34,  tor  fused, 

29,  12,  for  hoing, 

32,  3,  for  acquirements, 

44,  10,  for  reach, 

16,  fovKiiJlu, 

48,  25,  disorderly, 

79,  31,  after  Pie.ce, 

142,  9,  after  ^jio/essoj-s, 

203,  25,  for  loyalist, 

230,  31,  for  Aas, 

256,  33,  for  engagements, 

265,  1,  after  ir'ox, 

290,  25,  iov  hold, 

322,  10,  (or  Eaton, 

335,  18,  for  ^nscrai, 

346,  29,  for  Granny  Creek. 

■  398,  23,  ioT  reeeiving., 


read  refused. 

—  hoping'. 

—  achievements. 

—  research, 

—  Kufii). 

—  disordered^ 

—  was. 

—  and. 

—  loyalists. 

—  had. 

—  capitulation*. 

—  an  Etonian. 

—  holds. 

—  Eton. 

—  Auderat. 

—  Gum  Swamp. 

—  received 


• 


J^^lcf^ft-'Z-ltx 


• 


LIST  OF  SUBSCUIBEUS. 


In  Charleston. 

LADIES. 

Blake,  Margaret 
Burnet,  E.  W. 
Elliott,  Amarintha 
Elliott,  J.  G.  2  copies. 
Edwards,  R.  E. 
Edwards,  Mrs.  Major 
Ferguson,  Ann 
Finlay,  Mary 
Fossin,  Martha 
Gibbes,  Sarah,  2  copies. 
Gibbes,  Ann 
Gibbes,  Frances  D. 
Gibbes,  Maria 
Grimke,  Mary 
Grimke,  Angelina 
Grimke,  Sarah  D. 
Horry,  Harriet,  2  copies. 
Hazleluust,  Elizabeth 
Hall,  Daniel 
Izard,  Alice 
Izard,  Elizabeth 
Izard,  Claudia 
Irvine,  Mary 
Keith,  Susan  B. 
Laurens,  Eliza 
Lightwood,  Eliza 
Lining,  Mary 
Manigault,  M.  J, 
M'Call,  Elizabeth 
Mitchell,  Ann  E. 
Morris,  Ann 
Osborn,  Catharine 
Parker,  Elizabeth  Alston 
Pringle,  Susan 
Pringle,  Ann  A. 
Pringle,  Mary 
Rutledge,  Marv 


67 


Rutledge,  Harriet  P. 
Sebring,  Caroline  S. 
Smith,  Mary 
Smith,  M.  W. 
Smhh,  Ann  S, 
Smith,  Mary  N.  C. 
Smylie,  Susannah 
Stock,  Margaret 
Shubrick,  Mary 
Thompson,  Ann 
Van  Rhyn,  A.  E. 
Wainwright,  Ann 
Washington,  Jane 
Wragg,  Elizabeth 


Adams,  D.  L. 

Adger,  James 

Addison,  Thomas 

Alanson,  Rice 

Alexander,  David 

Alexander,  S. 

Aiken,  William 

Allen  William 

Ancrum,  James 

Ash,  John  S. 

Ashe,  Samuel 

Ashby  Thomas 

Axson,  John 

Axson,  Jacob 

Auld,  Isaac,  Dr. 

Bowen,  Right  Rev.  Nathaniel 

Bay,  Hon.  Judge 

Bay,  John 

Bacot,  Thomas  W. 

Bacot,  Henry  H. 

Bacot,  Daniel  D. 

Ball,  John, 


45a 


SUBSCRIBERS  NAMES. 


Ball,  Isaac 

Bankhead,  Colonel  James 
Babcock,  Wm.  R, 
Bailey,  W.  E. 
Bailey,  Henry 
Baker,  R.  B. 
Bamfielcl,  T. 
Banks,  Charles 
Bee,  Thomas 
Bee,  Barnard 
Bennett,  Joseph 
Bennett,  John  S- 
Bennett,  W.  S. 
Berry,  Capt.  Arthur, 
De  Berrier,  William 
Bernie,  George 
Black,  Alexander 
Black,  David 
Blamyer,  Williara 
B,Hy. 
Blake,  J.  H. 
Boylston,  Dr. 
Bonneau,  John  E, 
Bonneau,  Sims 
Boyce,  Ker 
Boimetheau,  Henry  B, 
Brisbane,  William 
Boucheneau,  Charles 
Brown,  Alexander 
Brown,  Charles 
Browne,  Robert  C. 
Bryan,  Colonel 
Brailsford,  Dr. 
Brailsford,  William  M. 
Broughton,  Philip 
Bulow,  C. 
Bulow,  JMajor  J.  J. 
Burrill,  J.  E. 
Burgoyne,  Dr.  W  illiam 
Burke,  M.  M.  Hall 
Burden,  Kinsey 
Burckmyer,  Cornelius 
Burckmyer,  J.  C. 
Capers,  Charles  G. 
Cattell,  Capt.  William 
Caldwell,  John 
Caldwell,  Robert 
Campbell,  Dr.  I.  M. 
Campbell,  John 
Campbell;  John 


Campbell,  A.  W. 
M'Call,  Dr. 
M'Cosh,  Joseph 
Cardoza,  David 
Carnochan,  Richard 
Carr,  Robert 
Cheeseborough  J.  W. 
Chalmers,  Henry  J. 
Chiffelle,  T.  P. 
Clarke,  Bartholomew 
Clarke,  Joseph 
Clarke,  Jared 
Cogdell,  Maj.  J.  S. 
Colcock,  Hon.  Judge 
Colcock,  C.  J.  jun. 
Coffin,  T.  A. 
Cochran,  Thomas 
Colbourn,  James  Smith 
Cordes,  Francis 
Cowing,  S.  L. 
Condy,  Colonel  T.  D. 
Course,  Isaac 
Gourtenay,  E.  S. 
Crafts,  Maj.  William 
Cramer,  John 
Ci'ocker,  D. 
Cross,  Colonel  Geo.  W 
Cunningham,  Richard 
Cuthbcrt,  Gen.  J.  A. 
Cuthbert,  James 
Cuthbert,  Thomas 
Cuthbert,  J.  A. 
Darrel,  J.  J. 
Daws,  H.  P. 
Dalcho,  Rev.  F. 
Dawson,  John 
Dawson,  John  K. 
Dawson,  L.  M. 
Davis,  John  N. 
Deas,  Henry 
Deas,  Seaman 
Deas,  Thomas 
Deas,  Dr.  Robert 
De  Fougeres,  Marquis 
De  Carendeffez,  Dr. 
De  Liesseline,  F.  A. 
De  Liesseline,  F.  G. 

Duplat , 

Depau,  Lewis 

De  SaussurCj  Heniy 


SUBSCRIBERS  NAMES. 


45i 


Dickson,  O.  S. 

Dill,  Joseph  M. 
Doughty,  James 
Doughty,  W.  C. 
Dorrei,  Robert 
Drayton,  Hon.  Judge 
Drayton,  Colonel  William 
Drayton,  Thomas 
Drayton,  William  Henry 
Dunkin,  B.  F 
Dyson,  Abraham 
Eckhard,  Jacob 
Eckhard,  Geo.  B. 
Eckhard,  John  F. 
Edwards,  Dr.  C.  L. 
Edwards,  George 
Edwards,  James  F. 
Edwards,  Edward 
Edmonston,  C. 
Egleston,  G.  W. 
Elfe,  Isaac 
Elliott,  Stephen 
Elliott,  Benjamin 
Elliott,  R.  £. 
Enslow,  J.  L. 
Esnard,  P. 
Fayolle,  Peter 
Farr,  John 
Flemrning,  Thomas 
Flagg,  George 
Ferguson,  Dr.  Samuel 
Ferguson,  James 
Fife,  J. 
Ford,  Jacob 
Fordham,  Richard 
Franks,  L.  P. 
Eraser,  Charles 
Eraser,  Frederick  G. 
Eraser,  John 
Fraser,  John  G. 
Furman,  Richard  B. 
Furman,  Joseph 
Furman,  C.  M. 
Gadsden,  John 
Gadsden,  Thomas 
Garden,  Alexander 
Gault,  Thomas 
Geddes,  General 
Gervais,  Rev.  Paul  T. 
Gaillard,  Peter 


Gaillard,  Daniel  H. 
Gaillard,  A.  S. 
Gaillard,  Alfred 
Gibbes,  William  H. 
Gibbes,  Robert  R. 
Gibbes,  Lewis  L. 
Gibbes,  G.  M. 
Gibbes,  Robert  M. 
Gibbes,  James 
Gibbes,  John  R. 
Gibbes,  Mathurin  G, 
Gillon,  Alexander 
Gilchrist,  Robert  B. 
Gist,  States 
Gleize,  Dr.  Henry 
Glassel,  Major  U.  S.  A. 
Glover,  Major 
Glover,  Dr.  Joseph 
Godard,  Rene 
Gordon,  Charles 
Gordon,  John 
Green,  T.  P. 
Gray,  Alexandei* 
Gray,  J.  W. 
Graves,  Charles 
Grimball,  John  B. 
Grirake,  Dr.  John 
Grimke,  J.  S. 
Grimke,  Thomas  D< 
Grimke,  C.  F. 
Greenland,  W.  P. 
Goldsmith,  Henry 
Gregson,  Thomas 
Giles,  O.  J. 

Harleston,  Edward,  sen. 
Harleston,  Edward,  jun. 
Harleston,  N.  sen. 
Harleston,  John 
Hall,  Dr.  William 
Harth,  William 
Hamilton,  Major  James,  sen. 
Hamilton,  James,  Intendant 
Hart,  Richard 
Harby,  Isaac 
Haig,  David 
Haig,  James 
Haig,  Dr.  H.  M. 
HanckeU,  Rev.  C. 
Haskell,  Major  Elnatlian 
Hayne,  Colonel  A.  P. 


452 


SUBSCRIBERS  NAME^. 


Hayne,  Colonel  Robert  Y. 
Hayne,  William 
Hazlehurst,  Robert 
O'Hair,  James 
O'Hara,  Colonel 
Haven,  C.  C. 
Hey  ward,  N. 
Hey  ward,  William 
Heyward,  Thomas 
Heyward,  Joseph 
Holland,  Edwin  C. 
Henrjf,  Alexander 
Heriot,  B.  D. 
Horry,  E. 
Horry,  E,L. 
Hoff,  Henry 
Hoff,  John  M. 
Howard,  Colonel  Robert 
Horlbeck,  John 
Horlbeck,  Henry 
Herckenwrath,  Leon 
Holmes,  J.  B. 
Holmes,  Henry  P. 
Holmes,  John 
Holmes,  J.  E. 
Horsey,  T.  J. 
Howland,  Joseph 
Huard,  Dr.  S. 
Huger,  Hon.  Benjamin 
Huger,  Hon.  Judge 
Huger,  Dr.  Benjamin 
Huger,  Alfred 
Huger,  John 
Huger,  Daniel 
Hume,  John,  sen. 
Hume,  John,  jun. 
Hume,  Robert 
Hanscombe,  Thomas 
Hutchison,  Edward  L. 
Hunt,  Colonel  B.  F. 
Irving,  John  B. 
Irvine,  Dr.  Matthew 
Izard,  Henry 
Jenkins,  Christopher 
Jervey,  Captain  Thomas 
Jervey,  James 
Johnson,  Hon,  David 
Johnson,  Dr.  J. 
Johnson,  William 
Jones,  Ilenry  J, 


Jones,  John  S. 

Jones,  John  C. 

Keith,  Colonel  M.  I. 

Kennedy,  Captain  Jame^s 

Kennedy,  Major  L.  II. 

Ker,  Joseph 

Kershaw,  William 

Kinloch,  Frederick 

Knight,  Thomas 

Kinsr,  Mitchell 

Kiridand,  W.L. 

Library    Society,    Charleston,  2 

copies. 
Library  Society,  Pineville   2  co- 

j}ics 
Ladson,  James 
Ladson,  C.  B. 
Lehre,  Thomas,  juii. 
Lance,  William 
Lance,  John  G. 
Lance,  Francis 
Lazarus,  M. 
Lee,  Thomas 
Lesesne,  Peter 
Legare,  James 
Legare,  Thomas 
Legare,  John  D. 
Legare,  John  Berwick 
Legare,  Francis 
Legare,  Hugh  S. 
Legare,  J .  Basnett 
Legare,  Thomas,  jun.' 
Levy,  I.  C. 
Lewis,  John 
Leaumont,  Robert 
Lining,  Edward 
Lining,  Charles 
Lindsay,  William 
Lockwood,  Joshua,  jun. 
Logan,  William 
Lord,  Archibald 
Lord,  Richard 
Lowndes,  Thomas 
Lowndes,  James 
Lynah,  Edward 
Lynah,  James 
Lucas,  William 
Mackey,  Dr.  John 
Magwood,  Colonel  S. 
M'Kinney,  C. 


SUBSCRIBERS  NAMES. 


453 


iMairs,  Simon 
M'Clarey,  Samuel 
Manigault,  Joseph 
Manigault,  Major  Henry 
Massias,  Major  U.  S.  A. 
M'Pherson,  Colonel  James 
Marshall,  Thomas  C.    • 
Martin,  William 
Martin,  Robert 
Matthews,  John  R. 
Maxwell,  R. 
Maxwell,  William  R. 
Maynard,Dr. 
Maybank,  Joseph 
Mazyck,  N.  B. 
Mey,  F.  C. 
Mey,  Charles  S. 
Miller,  Abraham 
Miller,  William  H. 
Miller,  W.  C. 
Miller,  James  A. 
Miller,  John 
Miller,  George 
Miller,  A.  E.  5  copies. 
Milligan,  Joseph 

Milligan,  Thomas 

Middleton,  Arthur 

Middleton,  Artliur,  jun. 

Middleton,  Thomas 

Michell,  Edward 

Mintzing,  J.  F. 

Morris,  Capt.  U.S.  A. 

Morris,  Colonel  Thomas 

Morris,  Lewis,  jun. 

Morris,  Captain  William 

Morris,  Edward 

Morris,  B. 

Motte,  Abraham 

Moflfett,  Andrew 

Moore,  S.  W. 

Moses,  Myer 

Murray,  Rev.  J.  J. 

Montgomery,  Hon.  Judge 

Napier,  Thomas 

Nathan,  Henry 

Noble,  Hon.  P.  (Speaker) 

Nott,  Hon.  Judge 

O'Neal,  Charles 

D'Oyley,  Charles 

Osborn,  Chajles 


Ogier,  Thomas 

Oswald,  Genera! 

Otis,  R.  W. 

M'Owen,  P. 

Parker,  John  sen. 

Parker,  John  jun. 

Parker,  Thomas 

Parker,  William  H, 

Parker,  William 

Parker,  A.M. 

Parker,  Charles 

Parker,  J.  W. 

Parker,  Pheneas  W. 

Palmer,  J. 

Paul,  Dunbar 

Patterson,  Samuel 

Payne,  Josias  S. 

Perman,  George 

Pezant,  J. 

Phelon,  E.  M. 

Prescott,  G.  W. 

Pettigru,  J.  L. 

Peronneau,  William 

Peronneau,  Henry 

Pinckney,  General  C.  C.  6  copies 

Pinckney,  Charles 

Pinckney,  Roger 

Pmckney,  Richard  U.  S.  N. 

Postell,  Captain  William 

Potter,  John 

Potter,  James,  2  copies. 

Pringle,  John  J.  2  copies. 

Pringle,  James  R. 

Pringle,  Robert 

Pringle,  Robert  Alexander 

Primerose,  Robert 

Prioleau,  Colonel  John  C. 

Prioleau,  Dr.  P.  G. 

Prioleau,  Dr.  Thomas 

Prioleau,  Samuel 

Price,  William 

Price,  Thomas 

Pratt,  John 

Quash,  Robert 

Ralston,  Robert 

Ramsay,  Dr.  John 

Ramsay,  David 

Ramsay,  James 

Ravenel,  Henr}'^ 

Ravenel,  John 


454 


SUBSCRIBERS  NAMES. 


Read,  Dr.  William 
Read,  Harleston 
Reid,  George 
Reeves,  iEneas  S.  2  copies 
Reynolds,  Benjamin 
Righton,  John  M. 
Richardson,  Hon.  Judge 
Rivers,  John 
Rivers,  George 

Royer , 

Robertson,  William 
Robertson,  John 
Robinson,  Alexander 
Rouse,  Williajn 
Rouse,  James  W. 
Rose,  Hugh,  2  copies 
Rose,  James 
Rose,  John 
Rogers,  John 
Roach,  E. 
Roach,  William 
Roux,  Lewis 
Rowand,  C.  E.  ^ 
Rout,  W.  G. 
Rutledge,  Frederick 
Rutledge,  John 
Rutledge,  Edward 
Rapelye,  Jacob 
Ryan,  L. 
Rhodes,  John 

Sass,  Jacob 

Seeger,  Charles 

Sebring,  Barnet 

Saltus,  Capt. 

Sinclair,  William 

Sinclair,  Alexander 

Sinclair,  William,  U.  S.  N. 

Schnierle,  John  M. 

Skinner,  Lewis 

Simons,  Keating 

Simons,  AVilliam 

Simons,  Edward  P. 

Simons,  Thomas  Grange 

Simons,  Thomas  Y. 

Shroudy,  W.  B.  T. 

Shoolbred,  John 

Slawson,  Nathaniel 

Silliman,  John  H. 

Le  Signeur,  Dr. 

Shand,  Peter 


Shields,  Henry 

Smith,  Josiah 

Smith,  T.  Rhett,  2  copies 

Smith,  William  Mason,  2  copies. 

Smith,  Capt.  Peter 

Smith,  Skirving 

Smith,  R.  D. 

Smith,  Thomas  jun. 

Smith,  Benjamin  B. 

Smith,  Robert 

Smith,  W.  S. 

Smith,  Benjamin  Rhett 

Smith,  James  H. 

Smith,  Thomas  M. 

Smith,  William,  jun. 

Stephens,  Dr.  W.  S. 

Street,  Thad. 

Stent,  John 

Stevens,  Col.  Daniel 

Schutt,  L.  H.  C. 

Strohecker,  John 

Spring,  John 

Stewart,  Robert 

Suau,  Peter 

Steedman,  C.  J. 

Snowden,  W.  E. 

Stoney,  John 

Stevens,  J.  Henry 

Sifly,  Henry 

Taylor,  Josiah 

Taylor,  Lieut.  U.  S.  A. 

Taylor,  Richard 

Teasdale,  Richard 

Thayer,  E. 

Tschudy,  Rev.  J.  J. 

Telfer,  Edward 

Thompson,  J. 

Tennant,  C. 

Theus,  S. 

Timothy,  P. 

Thorn,  John 

Thomas,  James 

Trescot,  Henry 

Toomer,  Joshua  W. 

Trapier,  Paul 

Trapmann,  L. 

Trenholm,  William 

Tunis,  C.  H. 

Tucker,  C.  S. 

TurnbuU,  Robert  J, 


SUBSCRIBERS  NAMES. 


455 


Timno,  Adam 
Tunno,  Dr.  J.  C. 
Tidyman,  Dr. 
Valk,  J.  R. 
De  Villers 
Vanderhorst,  Elias 
Vanderhorst,  Richard 
Washington,  William 
Warley,  Charles 
Warley,  Dr.  William 
Watts,  Beaufort  T. 
Waring,  D.  J. 
Waring,  Col.  M.  A. 
Watson,  James  A. 
Westendorff,  C.  P.  L. 
White,  J.  B. 
White,  John 
Wesner,  Frederick 
Weyman,  Joseph  T. 
Whaley,  W.  S. 
Whilden,  Joseph 
Wilkie,  William  R. 
Wigfall,  John  A. 
Wigi'all,  Thomas,  sen, 
Wigfall,  Thomas,  jun. 
Winthrop,  Frederick 
Wilkins,  G.  M. 
Wilson,  Major  John 
Wilson,  John  L. 
Wilson,  Rev.  WiUiam 
Wilson,  J.  H. 
Wilson,  Dr.  S. 
Wilson,  Dr.  J.  M. 
Wilson,  S.  jim. 
Wilson,  A.  H. 
Willington,  A.  S. 
Wright,  J.  J. 
Wood,  James 
Yates,  Jeremiah  A. 
Yeadon,  Richard 

Moultriemlle. 
J.  B.  I'On,  Intendant 
Gen.  Thomas  Pinckney 
John  Middleton 
Timothy  Ford 
William  Carson 
John  Wilkes 
Daniel  M'Caulay 
Dr.  Raoul 
Henry  Inglesby 


D.  Lamb,  jun. 
Capt.  R.  B.  Baker 
C.  C.  Pinckney,  jun. 

Beaufort. 
John  G.  Barnwell 
Edward  Barnwell 
William  Barnwell 
Robert  W.  Barnwell 
John  M.  Baker 
Paulus  J.  Bell 
Paul  H.  Barns 
William  Burke 
Archibald  Baynard 
John  Chaplin 
Saxby  Chaplin 
WiUiam  Elliott 
Edmund  Ellis 
Thomas  D.  Buller 
John  A.  Fripp 
James  Fripp 
Perry  Fripp 
James  Fickling 
W.  J.  Glen 
William  Grayson 
Myer  Jacobs 
David  M'Kee 
WiUiam  Mairs 
Moses  J.  Moses 
WiUiam  B.  Oswald 
John  E.  Pope 
J.  I.  Perryclair 
William  Richard 
B.  B.  Sams 
Lewis  R.  Sams 
John  J.  Smith 
W.  C.  Talbird 
M.  D.  Toomer 
J.  M.  Verdier 
M.  J.  Wilkins 
WUlJam  H.  Wrigg 
James  E.  West 

Island  Creek. 
Dr.  Joseph  Ford 
N.  B.  Scriven 
Henry  Chipman 
William  Bell 
F.  C.  WitseU 
L.  WitseU 
Jacob  Warley 
Library  Societyy 


456 


SUBSCRIBERS  NAMES. 


Felix  B.  Warley 
B.  S.  Logan 
William  Singleton 
Joseph  Eraser 
Charles  Fishburn 
Richard  H.  Fishburn 

F.  B.  Fishburn 
William  Murray 
Freflerick  Eraser 
Alfred  Walter 
Paul  S.  H.  Lee 
Thomas  Boone 
Rev.  L.  Floyd 
J.  Lockwood 
John  G.  Godfrey 
W  iljiazn  Ellison 

Georgetown. 
B.  F.  Trapier 
William  W.  Trapier 
John  iM.  Taylor 
Robert  Heriot 
Francis  Kinloch 
Library  Society 
Samuel  Wragg 
Charles  Hutrgins 
JVIaj.  William  A.  Bull 
Hon.  Thomas  R.  Mitchell 
Col.  William  Alston 
Col.  J.  P.  Alston 
Charles  C.  P.  Alston 
L.  Myers 
Francis  Withers 
Hugh  Eraser 
Maj.  Gen.  Carr 
James  M.  Grier 

Camden. 
James  G.  Holmes 
J.  J.  Carter 
J.- Carter 
Joseph  J.  Evans 

Orangehurgh, 

G.  E.  Sally 

Columbia. 
South-Carolina  College,  2  copies. 
Hon.  Judge  De  Saussure 
Col.  A.  Blanding 


Capt.  B.  T.  Elmore 
Col.  John  Taylor 
A.  B.  Stark 

William  F.  De  Saussure 
H.  T.  Nott 
G.  Chapman 
D.  T.  M'Cord 
Thomas  Willison 
J.  Gregg 
Zeb.  Rudolph 


Statebiirgli. 
Hon.  Judge  Waties 
Hon.  Judge  James 
Col.  F.  K.  Huger 
Cleland  Kinloch 
Stephen  Miller 
Dr.  Brownfield 
Henry  Middleton 
Orlando  Rees 
William  Mayrant,  jun. 
John  Mayrant,  jun. 
W.  H.  James 
X.  T.  Bracey 
W.  W.  Anderson 
S.  J.  Murry 
John  Waties 
William  Ballard 
Isaac  Lenoir 
J.  J.  Frierson 

Sumterville. 
John  Knox 
William  Sumter 
William  Mayrant 
William  Hay ns  worth 
J.  G.  Mathis 
R.  Huntington 
William  H.  Capers 
J.  Dergun 
Leroy  Perdue 
James  F.  Gordon 
Joseph  D.  Clay 
W.  A.  Calclough 
Evan  Benbow 

Pendleton. 
Col.  Tliomas  Pinckney,  2  copies. 
Dr.  Hall 


SUBSCRIBERS  NAMES. 


451 


Col.  J.  E.  Calhoun 
Robert  Anderson 
Col.  Warren 

Winnshorougli. 
Cali^b  Clarke 
William  M'Cright 
S.  Johnson 
P.  E.  Pearson 
John  B.  M'Call 

Chester. 
VV.  S.  Gibbes 
R.  G.  JNlills 
John  Lowrey 
J.  E.  Gunning 
M'Clarey 

Abbeville. 
Joseph  Black 
Catlett  Connor 

Edgefield. 
Sampso3i  Butler 
Daniel  Bird 
A.  P.  Butler 
John  Kay 
John  JNliddleton 

Neivbei-ry. 
Job  Johnston 
J.  B.  O'Neal 
\braham  Dyson 

Laurens. 
John  Hunter 
Benjamin  James 
William  Downs 

Spartenburgh. 
Eber.  Smith 

Lancaster. 
Robert  M'Corkett 
Amassa  Howard 

Barnwell. 
L.  M.  Ager 

York. 
Thomas  Warramanni.  sen. 


5P, 


Cambridge. 

C.  C.  Merryson 

Clarendon. 
Albert  J.  M'Gurny 

Willi  avisburgJi. 
P.  G.  Gourdine 

St.  Bartholonmcs. 
Isham  Walker 

Boston. 
Capt.K.  D.  Wainwright,U.  S.  M. 
Capt.  W.  B.  Shubrick,  II.  S.  N. 
Capt.  J.  F.  Heileman,  U.  S.  A. 
Capt.  R.  M.  Harrison,  U.  S.  A. 
Lieut.  C.  R.  Floyd,  U.  S.  M. 
H.  H.  Watson 
Stephen  Leach 
J.  Magee 
S.  O.  Auchmuty 

Baltimore. 
Robert  Gilmore,  2  copies. 
W.  Gilmore 
Robert  Oliver 

D.  Winchester 
Robert  G.  Harper 
W.  E.  Williams 
Jacob  G.  Davies 
John  Barney 
John  E.  Howard 
J.  Montgomery 
Marcus  Denison 
William  M'Donald 
John  Smith 

J.  S.  Skinner 

Fayette. 
Benj.  Robinson 
Duncan  M'Rae 
Thomas  Evans 
Thomas  J.  Robesoa 
Archibald  M'Lean 
C.  P.  NuUett 
Jerard  Williams 
John  Armstrong 
David  Stephcnsoji 
J.  J.  E.Amell 


458 


SUBSCRIBERS  NAMES. 


Philadelphia. 
John  Vaughan,  2  cojjies. 
J.  A.  Smithj  2  copies. 
R.  Izard,  2  copies. 
Gen.  Izard 
Col.  Burn 
Col.  Fenwick 
Wm.  Duane 
E.  R.  Dupont 
De  Valville 
Charles  Roberts 
L.  Harris 
William  Short 
Jacob  Martin 
Dr.  J.  Mease 
S.  Mulvie 
D.  Gracie 

Richiiioiid. 
Chief  Justice  Marshall 
Hon.  Judge  Brooke 
Hon.  Judge  Johnston 
Maj.  Gen.  V/.  Scott 
J.  Brackenborough 
J.  Wickham 

B.  Payton 

C.  J.  Nicholas 
Jos.  Marks 

Maj.  James  Gibbon 
William  Fitzhugh 
Capt.  John  Swift 
Maj.  Gen.  R.  B.  Taylor 
George  Pickett 

Savannah. 
Petit  De  Villers,  2  copies 
J.  Read,  2  copies. 
J.  M.  Wayne 
G.  W.  Anderson 
Richard  RicJjardson 
James  Marshall 
W.  B.  Bulloch 
Rev.  William  Cranston 
Robert  Habersham 
John  II.  Morrell 
S.M.Bond 
J.  M.  Stone 
G.  L.  Cope 
'John  M 'Queen 
John  P.  Willianison 


William  M''Queen 

Thomas  M.  Morell 

John  Stephens 

Rich'd.  W.  Habersham,  2  copies 

William  Gaston 

H.  B.  Gwathmey 

Charles  Harris 

Thomas  M.  Berrian 

J.  Shell  man 

Benjamin  E.  Styles 

Samuel  Styles 

G.  VV.  M-Allister 

James  Bilbo 

William  Davies 

George  Glen 

S.  Mordecai 

Donald  M'Leod 

John  H.  Ashe 

Moses  Sheftall 

W.  P.  M'Connel 

R.  Rarf'ord 

Addison  Dashiell 

James  Bond 

Thomas  J.  Roberts 

Maj.  H.  M'Call 

Adam  Cope 

Dunwotty 

James  S.  Bulloch 
James  Eppinger 
Gen.  Floyd 
Thomas  Spaldmg 
Gen.  John  M'Intosh 
John  Morrell 
Barnard  Nicolan 
Jos.  Longworth 
George  Scheley 
William  Neff 

New-York. 
His  Excellency  De  Witt  Clinton 
Hon.  William  Bayard,  3  copies. 
Gen.  Theop's.  Bailey 
William  Rayard,jun. 
Robert  Bayard 
Gen.  Matthew  Clarkson 
William  B.  Crosby 
Dr.  D.  Hosack,  2  copies. 
R.  Gracie 

Dr.  J.  W.  Francis,  2  copies. 
C.  G.  De  Witt  ■ 


SUBSCRIBERS  NAMES. 


459 


Henry  Brevoort 
Charles  March 
Charles  Rapelye 
Colonel  Nicholas  Fisb 
Samuel  S.  Gardener 
J.  Hedden 
Daniel  T.  Hewit 
Col.  Libbeiis  Loomis 
Stephen  Allen,  Mayot 
Gen.  Jacob  Martin 
Col.  Alexander  M.  Muir 
M.  M.  Noah 
N.  Phillips 
N.  T.  Proctor 
T.  L.  Stagg 
Col.  H.  G.  Stephens 
Col  Richard  Varick 
Johnston  Verplanck 


Stephen  Van  Rensselaer,  jun. 

R.  Wilson 

Caleb  Westcott 

N.  Pendleton 

John  Pintard 

Col.  Trumbull 

Col.  Lewis  Morris,  3  copies 

J.  G.  Bogert 

G.  C.  Verplank 

Rev.  J.  M.  Wainwright 

G.  Gibbes 

C.  K,  Perdaey 

E.  Weeks 

Washington. 
Col.  John  Tayloe 
Benjamin  Ogle  Tayloe 


*^*  The  list  of  subscribers  from  Washington,  and  several  other 
places,  did  not  arrive  in  time  for  insertion. 


40 


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9*^7.  3 


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